Key Philosophical Concepts: A Descartes Lexicon
Key Philosophical Concepts: A Descartes Lexicon
Algebra
Part of mathematics using symbols to represent quantities, simplifying and generalizing issues.
Alma
The thinking substance, the self of every individual.
Analysis
Method of breaking down complex ideas into simple elements apprehended by intuition.
Analysis of Geometry
Using equations to solve problems in analytic geometry.
Certainty
Subjective belief in a statement’s truth, synonymous with evidence, opposed to doubt and opinion.
Circumspection
Mental
Epicureanism and Stoicism: Two Ancient Philosophies
Epicureanism: A Philosophy for a Happy Life
Epicurus (341-270 BC) was born in Samos and lived in Athens. His conception of the good and optimal human behavior differed greatly from Aristotle’s political vision. Epicurus advocated for the affirmation of the individual and their conscience as the core of morality.
Epicurus conceived philosophy as a way of life. Epicureanism, rather than being a rigid philosophical system, is a practical approach to living. Epicurus’s thought is based on three fundamental
Read MoreAristotle: Hylomorphism, Politics, Movement, and Actuality
Aristotle’s Hylomorphism: Matter and Form
Hylomorphism is the Aristotelian theory that states everything is composed of matter and form:
- Matter: The substratum of form.
- First matter: The absolutely unknown substrate in the composition of all material things.
- Second matter: The tangible reality. Example: wood.
- Form: What determines the matter.
- Substantial form: What makes a thing what it is. Example: table.
- Accidental form: Accidents of second matter. Example: color of the table.
Aristotle also distinguishes
Read MoreState, Nation, and Civil Society: Roles and Theories
The State as the Organization of Political Power
State sociology studies the relationship between the state and civil society.
Nation, State, and Civil Society
Nation
The concept of a nation has evolved over time. The average age a nation is defined as a group of people who are credited with the same origin. A nation is an organization with precise limits of the unit, which is based on consent.
In the modern era, nationalism misunderstood wars and conflicts caused by some thinkers argue that an idea
Read MoreMiguel Delibes’ Characters: Carmen and Mario in ‘Five Hours with Mario’
Characters in *Five Hours with Mario*
Carmen Sotillo
Carmen Sotillo is Mario’s wife and the narrator of the story. Physically, the book reveals many aspects of her, although it mentions several times the beauty of her generous heart. It also refers to the fact that having so many children spoils the body. Psychologically, the narrative delves deeper. One can appreciate the feeling of frustration that accompanies each of her words for various reasons. Among these is the feeling that her husband not
Understanding Violence Against Women and State’s Role
Violence Against Women
Throughout history, men have believed they are entitled to control the behavior of their wives and daughters and to resort to whatever forceful measures they deem appropriate. Male violence occurs in all cultures. It is still an invisible phenomenon, a minimized problem. The consideration of violence as a private matter resulted in it being understood as something normal and even legitimate. Later, it was regarded as an inappropriate thing, but as something that belonged to