Talking about Philosophy: English Vocabulary List

(in philosophy) the doctrine that knowledge is derived from sensory experience rather than theory or intuition

"Empiricism needs senses."

"Empiricism emphasizes that all knowledge originates from sensory experience and observation."

the philosophical position that views truth, morality, or knowledge as dependent on individual perspectives, cultural contexts, or historical circumstances, and rejects absolute or universal standards

"Relativism says truth varies."

"Relativism suggests that moral truths are not absolute but depend on cultural norms."

a philosophical theory according to which the world has no meaning and humans are free and responsible for their actions

"Existentialism says life is free."

"Existentialism suggests that individuals must create their own purpose in a meaningless world."

the relationship between a cause and its effect

"Causality links cause, effect."

"The experiment aimed to establish a clear link of causality between the two variables."

the philosophical belief that the spiritual world does not exist and the only thing that exists is physical matter

"Materialism believes only matter."

"Materialism asserts that only physical matter and energy are real."

a doubtful view toward others' honesty or intentions

"His cynicism showed distrust."

"Her constant cynicism about people's motives made her seem unfriendly."

the branch of philosophy that studies moral values and principles

"Ethics studies moral principles."

"Ethics explores the principles that guide human conduct and moral decision-making."

a positive moral quality or admirable trait in a person

"Honesty is a virtue."

"Patience is a virtue that can be cultivated through practice and self-awareness."

a structured method of reasoning in which truth is reached through the systematic exchange of logical arguments

"Dialectic uses logical arguments."

"Through a process of dialectic, they arrived at a mutually agreeable solution."

(philosophy) the belief that the physical world is either a product of the mind, or is entirely subjective and exists only in the mind

"Idealism sees mind shaping reality."

"Idealism argues that reality is fundamentally shaped by our minds and perceptions."

the belief or principle that ideas and actions should be based on logic instead of religion or emotion

"Rationalism relies on logic."

"Rationalism values logical reasoning over tradition when solving complex problems."

a system of thought based on human values and nature in which solving human problems is considered more important than religious beliefs

"Humanism values human needs."

"Humanism focuses on human potential and well-being, rather than divine intervention."

the belief that reality consists of two fundamental and opposing components, such as mind and body or good and evil

"Dualism sees two parts."

"Dualism is the philosophical theory that the mind and the body are fundamentally different kinds of substances."

the branch of philosophy which deals with the nature of beauty and art

"Aesthetics is the study of beauty."

"The aesthetics of modern architecture often prioritize clean lines and minimal decoration."