Knowledge, Epistemology & Theory

Metaphysics

The branch of philosophy that examines the fundamental nature of reality, including questions about what exists.

Epistemology

The study of knowledge, focusing on how we know what we know, including the nature and scope of knowledge.

Empiricism

A theory of knowledge that asserts knowledge comes from sensory experience and observation, using inductive reasoning to form conclusions.

Rationalism

A theory of knowledge that argues that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge, leading to deductions based on pre-existing principles.

Standpoint epistemology

A perspective in epistemology that suggests our reasoning is influenced by our social position, identity, and lived experiences.

Theory

A set of ideas that explains observations, which can only be supported or rejected based on evidence, not proven.

Hypo-Deductive Reasoning

A scientific method process involving a sequence from observation to hypothesis, followed by deduction, testing, and theory refinement.

Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis

A theory proposing that aggression is a response to frustration, which has evolved from a deterministic view to a model incorporating negative affect.

Key Point of Empirical Observation

Empirical observations do not equate to truth, as interpretations can be influenced by culture, fear, bias, and limited knowledge.

Theory Evolution

The concept that theories develop through refinement and adjustments based on new evidence rather than absolute proof.