Philosophy Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the lecture notes on philosophy, including its origins, major figures, and fundamental problems.

What does philosophy begin with?

Philosophy begins in wonder.

What is the definition of philosophy?

Philosophy is the love of wisdom; it is the contemplation or study of the most important questions in existence.

What is the danger of flawed philosophy?

If our philosophy is flawed, we may pursue false ideals, worship false gods, and nurture false hopes.

What distinguishes mythos from philosophy?

Mythos explains worldly things by tracing them to exceptional events, while philosophy seeks rational explanations.

When does Western philosophy begin?

Western philosophy dates from around 700 years BCE.

What did Thales of Miletus assert about unity and plurality?

Thales asserted there must be a unity behind the apparent plurality of things; otherwise, the world wouldn't be coherent.

What major problems do scientists seek to explain?

Scientists seek to explain how certain events occur, such as the orbit of Uranus.

What type of problems do philosophers typically address?

Philosophers address how certain concepts apply, such as the nature of reality.

List two classic philosophical problems.

The Mind-Body Problem and The Problem of Free Will.

What is the essence of the study of philosophy?

The essence of philosophy is a search for truth about the world and our place in it.