IB Philosophy Ultimate Guide

Mind-Body Problem

The philosophical issue regarding the relationship between the mind and the body, questioning how they interact and influence each other.

Substance Dualism

The belief that humans consist of two distinct substances: the mind (immaterial) and the body (material).

Monism

The view that the mind and body are one unified entity, rejecting the dualistic view.

Descartes’ Cogito

The philosophical assertion from Descartes that one can be certain of their existence because they think, summarized as 'I think, therefore I am.'

Proof from Doubt

Descartes' argument that he can doubt the existence of his body but cannot doubt his own existence as a thinking thing.

Proof from Indivisibility

Descartes' argument that the body can be divided into parts, while the mind cannot, establishing them as distinct.

Argument from Irreducibility

Descartes' assertion that if the mind can exist independently of the body, then substance dualism is true.

Behaviourism

The theory suggesting that mental states are equal to behavioral tendencies, with no need to reference inner mental states.

Functionalism

The theory emphasizing that mental states are defined by their functional roles rather than their physical composition.

Identity Theory

The belief that mental states are identical to brain states, establishing a materialistic view of the mind.

Qualia

The intrinsic, subjective properties of experiences, such as the perception of color or pain.

Gettier Problems

Scenarios demonstrating that justified true belief may not sufficiently constitute knowledge due to luck.

A Priori Knowledge

Knowledge that is independent of experience and can be known through reason alone.

A Posteriori Knowledge

Knowledge that depends on sensory experience and observation.

Empiricism

The philosophical belief that knowledge is primarily acquired through sensory experience.

Rationalism

The philosophical belief that knowledge is primarily acquired through reason and intellectual intuition.

Natural Rights

Rights that individuals are presumed to have by virtue of their humanity, such as life, liberty, and property.

Utilitarianism

An ethical theory that evaluates actions based on their consequences, promoting happiness for the greatest number.

Deontological Ethics

An ethical theory that emphasizes the morality of actions based on adherence to rules or duties.

Virtue Ethics

An ethical approach that focuses on the character of the moral agent rather than on rules or consequences.

Social Contract Theory

The philosophical idea that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to form a government that will protect their rights.

Justice

The principle of fairness in the distribution of resources and opportunities as well as the rectification of wrongs.

Positive Liberty

The freedom to achieve one's potential and fulfill one's own goals and desires.

Negative Liberty

The freedom from interference by others, allowing individuals to act as they choose.

Ethical Egoism

The normative ethical theory suggesting that individuals should act in their own self-interest.

Moral Relativism

The belief that moral truths are not absolute but vary between individuals or cultures.

Universalism

The belief that some moral values and rights are universal and should apply to all humans regardless of culture.

Criticism of Behaviourism

Behaviourism is criticized for neglecting inner mental states such as beliefs and feelings.

Philosophical Zombies

Hypothetical beings that are indistinguishable from humans in physical traits but lack conscious experience.