New News Philosophy #1

Origins of Philosophy:

• started in ancient Greece (Plato & Aristotle)

• early interpretation of “philosophy” meant academic study of anything

• math, physics, poetry, etc. all considered “philosophy”

Change in Definition

Old definition of philosophy:

Science: Search for answers

New definition of philosophy: thinking about questions = study of BIG questions (often without great answers).

Branches of Philosophy:

Metaphysics: studies the nature of reality

Epistemology, study of knowledge

Value theory:

Ethics: evaluates human conduct

Aesthetics: studies nature of beauty.

A Philosopher’s Greatest Toolbox: Logic.