Philosophy Disciplines, Socratic Method, Allegory of the Cave & Ethical Concepts

Metaphysics

Nature of reality

Epistemology

Knowledge

Ethics

Morality

Logic

Reasoning

Aesthetics

Beauty/art

Political Philosophy

Society and governance

Socrates

A classical Greek philosopher (469-399 BCE), known as the 'Father of Western Philosophy.'

Socratic method

A questioning technique that challenges assumptions and stimulates critical thinking.

Allegory of the Cave

Prisoners mistake shadows for reality; one escapes and sees true reality, symbolizing the journey from ignorance to knowledge.

Cave

The world of appearances and ignorance.

Sun in the Allegory

Truth, enlightenment, and ultimate reality (the Form of the Good).

Determinism

The belief that all events, including human actions, are caused by prior conditions and natural laws.

Free will

The ability to choose actions independently of prior causes or external forces.

Compatibilism

The idea that free will and determinism can coexist.

Philosophical concept

An abstract idea that helps explain or analyze fundamental aspects of human thought and reality.

Knowledge

A major philosophical concept discussed in class.

Truth

A major philosophical concept discussed in class.

Justice

A major philosophical concept discussed in class.

Three positive aspects of studying philosophy

Improves critical thinking, strengthens communication, and helps with ethical decision-making.

Philosophy in law

Debating justice and fairness in court decisions.

Philosophy in science

Exploring ethical issues in AI or genetic engineering.

Philosophy in daily life

Making moral choices about honesty, responsibility, or freedom.