Lesson 1: Origin of Philosophy

Origin of Philosophy

Birthplace: Greece, in the west.
Father of Philosophy: Thales of Miletus

Meaning of Philosopy

The word "philosophy" comes from Greek:
- Philo = “love”
- Sophia = “wisdom”
So, Philosophy = “Love of Wisdom”
Purpose: To seek wisdom and understand the world, the universe, and society by asking fundamental questions.

Definition of Philosophy

Philosophy is a science that studies the first causes or highest principles of all things using natural human reason.

Key Features:

        a. Science: It uses a systematic method of investigation.
        b. Natural Light of Reason: Relies on human thinking (not tools, experiments, or religion).
        c. Study of All Things: Philosophy investigates all aspects of reality.
        d. First Cause/Highest Principle: Focuses on the origin or foundation of         everything.

Fundamental Principles in Philosophy:
1. Principle of Identity
  ➤ Whatever is, is; a thing is what it is.
2. Principle of Non-Contradiction
  ➤ A thing cannot both be and not be at the same time and in the same way.
3. Principle of Excluded Middle
  ➤ Something either exists or does not exist — no middle option.
4. Principle of Sufficient Reason
  ➤ Nothing exists without a reason for its being.

Branches of Philosophy

1. Metaphysics – Study of Reality

Key: is what we see reality?
Goes beyond the physical world.
Explores existence, being, and reality.
Believes that true reality is deeper than what we see.

2. Ethics – Study of Morality

Key: Does it align with human virtue?
Analyzes what is right or wrong and evaluates human actions.
Uses logic to justify moral beliefs.
Five Ethical Frameworks:
1. Divine Command – Based on God’s will/order.
2. Consequentialism (Utilitarianism) – Based on best outcomes.
3. Deontological Ethics – Based on moral duties.
4. Virtue Ethics – Focuses on becoming a good person.
5. Relativism – Based on cultural or societal views.

3. Epistemology – Study of Knowledge

Examines:
- How we know what we know.
- What counts as valid knowledge.
- How to tell truth from falsehood.

4. Logic – Study of Correct Reasoning

From Greek "logike", coined by Zeno.
Focuses on valid reasoning, not just facts.
Helps prove arguments using logical structure/reasoning.

5. Aesthetics – Study of Beauty

Concerned with beauty and art (e.g. painting, music, literature).
Helps us appreciate life, and connect with culture, meaning, and creativity
Encourages deeper and richer experiences.