Key Concepts in Ancient and Modern Philosophy
As Aristotle pointed out, happiness is an ambiguous concept about which everyone has different opinions.
Maieutics
Maieutics is a pedagogical method based on the idea that the truth is latent in the mind of every human being due to innate reason but has to be “given birth” by answering intelligently proposed questions.
Callicles
Callicles was an ancient Athenian political philosopher best remembered for his role in Plato’s dialogue Gorgias. Callicles is depicted as a young student of the sophist Gorgias.
Read MoreAristotle’s Metaphysics: Substance, Nature, Cause
Substance
There are two classes of substances: primary substances and secondary substances.
- Primary Substance: Individual, specific beings. These are entities that are “neither a predicate nor subjective.” They possess essence (the qualities that make them what they are) and subsistence (independent existence). They are classified into:
- Natural (subject to becoming, sublunary substances)
- Supernatural (supralunar)
- Secondary Substance: The essence of the primary substance; that is, the form. They possess
Benedetto Croce: History, Philosophy, and the Spirit
History and Philosophy in Benedetto Croce
Benedetto Croce, a prominent Italian historian and one of the most influential figures in the field, introduced a distinct approach to history. His practice and convictions diverged from official historicism. This text synthesizes his thinking in relation to history and philosophy. He engaged with Marxism and Hegelian idealism, offering critiques based on the idea that reality is a spirit that continually determines and performs. The spirit, in Croce’s view,
Read MoreStephen Dedalus: Character Development & Symbolism
Stephen Dedalus: A Character Study
Stephen Dedalus is the protagonist of James Joyce’s *A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man*. The novel chronicles his evolution from childhood to adulthood, showcasing his intellectual and spiritual development.
Childhood and Conflicting Influences
From his childhood, Stephen experiences internal conflict. His parents present him with contradictory values. His mother instills in him the principles of duty, guilt, responsibility, and shame. Conversely, his father
Read MoreAirport Cities, Space Tourism, Zoos, Laughter, and More
Airport Cities
Airport Cities: 1) Travel for business; increase; immediately; show; away from. 2) (1) 3) A. Are being built to house the increasing number of workers. B) To work in offices near airports. C) Wine-tasting is offered. D) Will each have an airport city. 4) Forward; where; able; some; many/a lot of; of; tired. 5) Ordinary airports are mainly places where people catch planes. “Aerotropolis” are more like small cities, with high-tech offices, entertainment centers, sports facilities,
Read MoreThomas Aquinas: Biography, Faith, Reason, and God
Biography of Thomas Aquinas
Thomas Aquinas was born in Roccasecca Castle, the son of the Count of Aquino. He entered the Dominican Order in Naples and later joined the faculty of theology in Paris, where he became a disciple of Albertus Magnus. He taught and wrote in various cities in France and Italy. He returned to Paris and was summoned by the Pope to the Second Council of Lyons. He fell ill during the journey and died at the Cistercian abbey of Fossanova.
Faith and Reason According to Aquinas
Aquinas
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