Philosophy Lecture – Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key philosophical terms and Plato’s levels of knowledge from the lecture notes.

Philosophy

A way of life that seeks to give meaning and make sense of things and the world through reasoned reflection.

Modes of Philosophy

Different approaches to philosophical inquiry, including rigorous analysis of arguments for and against a view.

Intellectual Exercise

The mental practice of critical thinking and meditation aimed at understanding reality.

Argument Analysis

A systematic evaluation of reasons presented for or against a particular claim or viewpoint.

Reality

The state of things as they actually exist, which philosophy aims to understand.

Conjecture (Plato)

The lowest level of knowledge, where one knows only images, reflections, or representations.

Belief (Plato)

Knowledge derived from sensory perception; seeing, hearing, touching, etc.

Understanding and Reason (Plato)

Higher-level knowledge where the mind comprehends abstract entities and ideas.

Empirical Knowledge

Knowledge gained through the senses—sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch.

Theoretical/Speculative Knowledge

Knowledge attained by contemplating the principles and causes of things to provide a sufficient explanation.