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Introduction to Philosophy

Instructor: Mr. Sette
Course Code: HZT 4U1

Eastern vs. Western Philosophy

Key Differences

  • Western Philosophy:

    • There is a spiritual reality and a physical one, which are separate.
    • Human life is often valued above other forms of life.
    • The divine exists apart from the material and is separate from it.
    • The journey of mankind is linear.
    • The goal is to address the problem of sin and immorality, striving for reunion with God.

  • Eastern Philosophy:

    • There is one reality, encompassing all existence.
    • All life may be viewed as sacred.
    • The divine is a part of creation and is found everywhere within it.
    • The journey of mankind is cyclical.
    • The goal is to address ignorance and achieve enlightenment.

Understanding Philosophy

Etymology
  • The term "Philosophy" is derived from two Greek words:
    • Philein: Meaning to love.
    • Sophia: Meaning wisdom.
    • Therefore, philosophy literally means “the love of wisdom.”
Definition
  • In Latin, philosophy is defined as:
    • “Philosophia est scientia ens”: Philosophy is the study of being.
  • Philosophy involves the pursuit of wisdom and encompasses:
    • Understanding what it means to be human.
    • Exploring the fundamental nature of God and reality.
    • Examining the sources and limits of our knowledge.
    • Determining what is good and right in our lives and societies.

Key Philosophical Questions

The Nature of Truth
  • Philosophy has an unwavering devotion to uncover the truth about what matters most in life, which includes finding meaning and purpose.
Core Philosophical Questions
  • What are the big questions philosophy seeks to answer?
    1. Why are we here? Who are we? Who am I? Why am I here?
    2. Does God exist?
    3. Is there life after death?
    4. What is the purpose or meaning of life?
    5. What can I know? What do I know?
    6. What is real? What is reality? Am I alone?
    7. What is right? What is wrong?

Philosophy and Beliefs

Examination of Beliefs
  • Many of the beliefs related to religion, politics, and morality are typically acquired during childhood.
  • Philosophy examines these beliefs not to reject them, but to analyze why we hold them and question the rational basis for those beliefs.
Quote on Truth
  • “Never tell the truth to people who are not worthy of it.” — Mark Twain

The Philosophical Process

Beginning with Questions
  • Philosophy begins with questioning in order to make sense of our experiences.
    • This involves critically and carefully examining commonly held beliefs about the universe.
The Philosophical Inquiry
  • The philosopher engages in the pursuit of scrutinizing accepted truths about the world and ourselves to evaluate their rational defensibility.
  • A philosopher refuses to accept conclusions without thoughtful consideration, seeking adequate evidence to determine if a reasonable individual may justifiably adhere to these beliefs.
  • Logic vs. Reason: Philosophers differentiate between using logic in arguments versus the broader concept of reason.

Example: Socrates

Socratic Wisdom
  • Socrates stated, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” (399 BCE)
  • This reflects the idea that pursuing misguided or trivial goals is a waste of time.
  • It prompts individuals to consider:
    • Is what we are living for meaningful?
    • How can we know we are doing the right thing?

Final Thoughts on Philosophy

Organizing Beliefs
  • Instead of merely possessing an unorganized mass of opinions, philosophers strive to inspect, scrutinize, and systematize their views into meaningful and coherent frameworks.
Ultimate Goal
  • The ultimate goal of philosophy is Freedom (autonomy):
    • The ability to make independent decisions and choose one’s path.
    • Example: Graduating from High School is a pivotal step towards individual autonomy.
    • Encouragement to start contemplating personal paths and decisions.