Meaning of Life & Introductory Philosophy

Vocabulary flashcards covering key philosophers, concepts, and terms from the lecture on the meaning of life and philosophy.

Philosophy

Literally “love of wisdom”; the pursuit of knowledge and its correct application.

Love (in philosophical context)

A strong desire for a particular object or goal that motivates action.

Wisdom

The correct application of knowledge in thought and action.

Unexamined Life

Socrates’ idea that a life without self-reflection is not worth living.

Hedonism

View that life’s meaning is to seek pleasure and avoid pain.

Idealism (happiness-oriented)

Belief that the goal of life is to achieve a state of happiness or perfection.

Existentialism

View that life has no inherent meaning; individuals create meaning through choices.

Impermanence

The principle that everything changes; nothing is permanent.

Socratic Method

A dialogic technique using questioning, argument, and discussion to discover truth.

Ataraxia

Epicurus’ term for freedom from fear, a key to happiness.

Aponia

Epicurus’ term for absence of physical pain, contributing to happiness.

Heraclitus

Greek philosopher famous for asserting that change is the only constant.

Epicurus

Philosopher who taught that happiness comes from ataraxia and aponia.

Plato

Student of Socrates; regarded as father of Political Science; warned against fearing ‘the light’ of truth.

Aristotle

Student of Plato; taught that excellence is a habit formed by repeated actions.

Empedocles

Philosopher who posited Love and Hate as cosmic forces that combine and separate matter.

Confucius

Chinese thinker who advised, “What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others,” advocating moral reciprocity.

Socrates

Greek philosopher known for “Know thyself” and the Socratic Method of inquiry.

Thomas Hobbes

Political philosopher who argued government is needed because humans are naturally individualistic.

Jean-Paul Sartre

Existentialist who said, “Hell is other people,” emphasizing self-judgment through others’ perspectives.

Hierarchy of Beings

Medieval concept ranking existence from immutable spirits (God, angels) to mutable matter (minerals).

Incorporeal

Without physical body; unable to decay (e.g., God, angels).

Corporeal

Having physical form; subject to change and decay (e.g., humans, animals, plants).

Two Divine Powers

Empedocles’ Love (combines) and Hate (separates), governing change in the universe.

SWOT Analysis

Self-assessment tool examining Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats for personal growth.

Strengths (SWOT)

Activities or qualities you do well that can be leveraged.

Weaknesses (SWOT)

Areas needing improvement that may hinder success.

Opportunities (SWOT)

External possibilities you can exploit using your strengths.

Threats (SWOT)

External factors that could harm your progress or goals.