Understanding Metaphysics: Truth, Knowledge, and Reality
Metaphysical Knowledge: An Introduction
Metaphysics, a term coined in the first century BC, originally referred to Aristotle’s works following his book on physics. It encompasses the fundamental principles of science and philosophical knowledge beyond the scope of the positive sciences. Metaphysics explores truth, knowledge, and the soul.
The distinction between natural sciences and philosophy lies not only in the degree of verification. Sciences precisely define their objects of study, refine testing procedures, and express findings in precise, often mathematical, language. Scientific evidence is compelling, leading to broad agreement among competent minds.
Philosophy, however, often lacks this level of agreement regarding themes, language, methods, or outcomes. As Aristotle stated, metaphysics is the science that seeks first principles. Philosophy and metaphysics often serve as a “knowledge frontier,” addressing contentious areas of understanding.
Despite the challenges, philosophical knowledge progresses, offering well-justified solutions alongside persistent problems. Philosophical issues profoundly impact lives, making it crucial to evaluate their truth. Philosophical works can be viewed as personal perspectives on the world, yet they often present universal truth claims. Strong philosophical theories are supported by corroborated evidence, forming the basis of “philosophical science.” Autobiographical philosophy, lacking corroboration, remains a personal truth.
Large Regions of Metaphysical Knowledge
Metaphysics, as a fundamental philosophy, prepares three types of theories:
- Ontology: The theory of reality in general.
- Epistemology: The theory of the knowing subject.
- Ethics: The theory of human action.
These theories should be approached with the same scrutiny as scientific theories, questioning their methods and criteria for truth.
The Ontology
“Ontology” derives from the Greek expression tou Ontos logos: the science of everything that exists. Defining a science requires specifying its purpose and perspective. Medieval philosophers referred to the “material object” (the set of all beings) and the “formal object” (the study of what all beings have in common). As Aristotle noted, “being is said in many ways.” There are real and unreal beings.
Problems of Ontology
Ontology faces challenges from various fields:
- From Physics: Physicists develop theories about reality to explain and predict phenomena. However, it’s difficult to determine whether the entities they describe are real objects or merely conceptual tools for understanding and manipulating reality.
- From the Social Sciences: Questions arise about the existence of entities designated by words like “nation,” “will,” “rights,” and “fashion.” Are these entities real, unreal, or ideal?
What initially appears as an abstract science can have a dramatic impact on our lives.