Introduction to Philosophy – Review Flashcards

These flashcards review definitions, key philosophers, reasons to philosophize, and major branches and movements covered in the lecture notes.

What does the term “wonder” mean in philosophy?

To be filled with curiosity or doubt.

What does “wander” mean?

To walk or move in a leisurely, casual, or aimless way.

What is etymology the study of?

The root, origin, cause, basis, and history (etimos) of words (logos).

What are the Greek roots of the word “philosophy” and what do they mean?

Philos (love) and Sophia (wisdom).

According to the notes, why does the definition of philosophy arise?

Out of wonder, curiosity, and the desire to learn and understand things.

Who are philosophers?

People who engage in philosophy.

Which philosopher (570–495 BCE) is credited with the Pythagorean Theorem?

Pythagoras.

Which philosopher (535–475 BCE) proposed that everything is based on a higher order called ‘logos’?

Heraclitus.

Who is a central figure in philosophical atomism (460–370 BCE)?

Democritus.

What did Diogenes of Sinope attempt to demonstrate about wisdom and happiness?

That they belong to a man who is independent of society and its conventions.

Which philosopher (341–270 BCE) argued that the world’s basic constituents are atoms?

Epicurus.

Which ancient philosopher (470–399 BCE) is known for developing the Socratic Method?

Socrates.

What is the Socratic Method?

A way of examining a topic by asking a series of questions that lead the learner to analyze their knowledge and views.

Who was a student of Socrates and author of the Theory of Forms?

Plato.

What is Plato’s Theory of Forms?

Everything that exists is based on an ideal template perceived only in the mind.

Which philosopher (384–322 BCE) developed formal logic and deductive reasoning?

Aristotle.

What is deductive reasoning?

Analyzing specific statements to reach a conclusion or generalization.

According to Plato, what triggers the need to philosophize?

A sense of wonder.

According to René Descartes, what triggers the need to philosophize?

Doubt.

According to Karl Jaspers, what life situations lead us to philosophize?

Limit or adverse experiences that challenge us and prompt new understanding.

What does the branch of Aesthetics study?

Beauty and what makes things beautiful.

What does Logic study?

Correct reasoning.

What does Epistemology explore?

The nature, acquisition, and limits of knowledge, and its relation to belief and truth.

What does Metaphysics study?

The fundamental nature of reality and being (existence).

What is the focus of Ethics?

Moral questions and dilemmas.

What does Political Philosophy examine?

The nature of political systems, power, authority, and the moral basis for political institutions.

Dialectical Materialism is the official philosophy of which movement?

Communism (based on Marx and Engels).

What is Existentialism chiefly concerned with?

The individual’s experience of existence, freedom, and choice.

What does the Philosophy of Mind study?

The nature of the mind, mental events, and their relationship to the body.

What does the Philosophy of Science study?

The nature and foundations of science.

What is Phenomenology?

A research method focused on how humans perceive and communicate their lived experiences.

What does Idealism emphasize?

Ideas and consciousness over the material world.

What does the Philosophy of Religion examine?

The nature of religion and religious belief.

What is Pragmatism?

A movement stressing the practical consequences and real-world applications of ideas.

What is Deconstruction in philosophy and literary theory?

The exposure and undermining of metaphysical assumptions in texts and language.

How are ‘knowledge’ and ‘wisdom’ distinguished in the notes?

Knowledge is simple data from outside that passes through our senses; wisdom is an awareness of something basic.

What does the Greek root “etimos” signify?

Root, origin, cause, basis, history.

What does the Greek root “logos” signify?

Study.

Complete the statement: “Philosophy could enable man to live a life of happiness,” according to which philosopher?

Epicurus.