Nature and Branches of Philosophy
Philosophy is rational inquiry into fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, value and reasoning. This domain tests the nature of philosophy, its branches and its difference from science, religion and opinion.
Core rules
- Metaphysics asks what exists and what reality is like: substance, causation, mind, God, freedom.
- Epistemology asks what knowledge is, how it is justified and what its sources are.
- Ethics asks what is right, good and virtuous; aesthetics asks about beauty and art; logic asks about correct inference.
- Political philosophy, philosophy of religion and philosophy of mind are further branches. Philosophy uses argument and clarification rather than mere assertion or custom.
Worked example
Is the mind identical with the brain? This is a metaphysical question about the nature of mental states, though it also involves epistemology when we ask how such an identity could be known. What makes an action right? is ethical. What is a valid argument? is logical. Classifying the question correctly is part of the answer.
Traps
Do not reduce philosophy to personal opinion: claims need reasons. Do not confuse ethics with social custom. Do not treat logic as the psychology of thinking. Do not classify every question about religion as theology; philosophy of religion examines arguments and concepts critically.