Nietzsche’s Philosophy: Romanticism, Positivism, and Beyond
Nietzsche’s Philosophical Periods
Nietzsche’s thought can be divided into four periods:
1. Romantic Period: Philosophy of the Night
Following Schopenhauer, Nietzsche believes that life is the will to power (desire to continue and exist). He exalts life to free it from the oppression of culture. Because life is unintelligible, he analyzes linguistic expressions as symbols after which he is unconscious, the non-communicable, vital reality. Language is the starting point of philosophical reflection, determining
Understanding Ethics and Morality: Concepts and Theories
Ethics and Morality: Defining the Concepts
Ethics (from the Greek *ethos*, meaning habit or custom) and morals (from the Latin *mores*, also meaning custom or manners) share a similar etymological meaning. While the distinction is often considered artificial, it’s helpful to understand their nuances. Morals refer to the set of behaviors and values that govern a society at a particular time. These standards can be subjective (originating from an individual) or strict (imposed by society). The object
Read MoreUnderstanding Logical Fallacies: Types and Examples
Fallacies
The term “fallacy” refers to an invalid argument or inference. While sometimes used synonymously with “sophistry” (an argument used incorrectly to deceive), a sophistical fallacy is generally more difficult to identify as deceptive. We can distinguish between formal and material fallacies:
- Formal Fallacies: These occur when the inference is incorrect due to the structure of the argument itself, often involving uncertainties and contradictions.
- Material Fallacies: These occur when the error
Heraclitus, Parmenides, and the Pluralist Response
The pluralist response arose to reconcile the doctrines of Heraclitus and Parmenides. Heraclitus argued that everything changes, while Parmenides asserted that nothing changes. The pluralist conclusion was that something changes (the combination of elements), and something remains (the elements themselves). Thus, there isn’t just one arche (fundamental principle), but several.
Heraclitus and the Philosophy of Change
Heraclitus accepts the validity of the senses as a starting point but argues that
Read MorePlato’s Philosophy: Ontology, Epistemology, and the Theory of Ideas
Plato (427 BC – 347 BC)
Plato’s Ontology and Epistemology
Plato’s philosophy has a political purpose: to design a perfect state that avoids continuous struggle and prevents the government from falling into the hands of those who prioritize private gain over the city. He envisioned a state where the death of Socrates, the greatest injustice, would not be possible. The Theory of Ideas is the fundamental reference point for all of Platonic philosophy, with three clear intentions:
- Ethical Intention: Plato
Ethics and Politics: Navigating Morality in Governance
Ethics and Politics
Ethics is a discipline that reflects on our moral actions, explaining the causes and reasons that lead us to act in a particular way. The ethics of freedom and responsibility emphasize treating people as ends in themselves, not merely as means to our interests. Ethics defends and promotes human rights, as enshrined in constitutions. This forms the basis for shared social values that guide our lives. A democratic ethic is an ethic of citizens who reconcile and articulate individual
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