Philosophy of Life and Death: Key Concepts
Philosophical Concept of Life (Biographical)
Since the ancient Greeks used the term ‘life’ to encompass more extensive physical activities, including plant and animal life, there exists a distinct human way of being, namely, practical or moral life. From the 18th century onward, life has been highlighted as a case study in philosophy. For Ortega y Gasset, living is being found in the world, existing within a circumstance. Human life is not merely a thing in the world; it is known through living humanely.
Read MoreTruth, Essence, and Existence: A Philosophical View
Truth and Falsehood
1. Truth and Their Opposites: Falsehood and Lies.
By truth, we mean some kind of agreement or correspondence between what we think and what we say.
Falsehood is the lack or absence of agreement or correspondence between what we think and what we say.
A lie is consciously transmitted false information intended to deceive. Lying is a social issue, and it is done with a purpose, either good or bad.
Certainty and Doubt
2. Certainty and Doubt.
Certainty: The assurance that what I think and
Read MoreNietzsche’s Transvaluation of Values & Eternal Return
Critique of Dominant Values in Nietzsche’s Philosophy
Nietzsche’s critical niche culture is considered decadent because it challenges dominant values founded on the following pillars:
- Platonic Metaphysics: The notion of a fictional world more real than this one.
- Rejection of Rationalism: Dismissing rationalism and its emphasis on a life detached from this world.
- Christian Values: Critiquing Christian values as representing a discourse of moral condemnation and an appreciation of weakness.
- Scientific
Plato’s Allegory of the Cave: Understanding Property and Knowledge
Plato’s Allegory of the Cave: Property and Knowledge
The theme of Plato’s text is to determine the characteristics of the idea of property, making a distinction between the sensible world (the cave) and the intelligible world (the outside). The idea of property is the cause of everything. There are two types of knowledge: sensible and intelligible. Sensible knowledge provides access to what is right and fair. Intelligible knowledge allows access to intelligence and truth. Intelligible knowledge grants
Read MoreDescartes: Founding Rationalism & Modern Philosophy
Descartes and Rationalism
One of the central achievements of 17th-century Rationalism was the creation of its own sphere, encompassing both reason and its method. It posited a methodical and analytical human reason, capable of understanding and transforming the world. Every thought, therefore, is an action to transform reality. Modernity sought to change everything from the past, separating itself from any authority and founding itself on the rational principles of self-knowledge. Modern science
Read MoreMoral Concepts: Divine, Rational, and Utilitarian Origins
Moral Concepts: Three Main Approaches
1. Divine Command Theory
The first approach is based on divine character, appealing to the existence of one or more gods. This God has revealed their beliefs, and through that revelation, we come to understand what is right and what is wrong. As God told us His will, a creature’s willingness to adhere to God’s will determines their moral compass. This approach assumes a superior being who proclaims what is moral for all, regardless of individual beliefs or religions.
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