Metaphysics is a branch of philosophy that explores the fundamental nature of reality, existence, and the universe. It delves into questions that transcend beyond empirical science, such as the nature of being, the concept of time and space, and the relationship between mind and matter. Metaphysics examines the underlying principles of reality, seeking to understand how everything is connected and why things exist. It also addresses issues of identity, change, causality, and the possibility of an external world beyond human perception. This philosophical inquiry is crucial for grappling with the most abstract and profound aspects of human thought, challenging our understanding of the observable world and prompting reflection on the deeper meaning and structure of existence. Metaphysics has significantly influenced various fields, including science, theology, and literature, and continues to be a central topic in philosophical discussions.
Plutarch turned biography into moral philosophy. By comparing the lives of Greece’s and Rome’s greatest figures, he explored not power, but character — and taught that virtue defines true greatness.
Cicero brought philosophy into public life, championing reason, justice, and moral duty during Rome’s decline. His eloquence couldn’t save the Republic, but his ideas helped shape the modern world.
Gorgias of Leontini (c. 485–380 BCE) was a master of rhetoric whose dazzling speeches could sway audiences and reshape perceptions. Famous for his radical scepticism and his defence of Helen of Troy, Gorgias revealed the sheer power of language to persuade, inspire, and even deceive.
Protagoras, one of ancient Greece’s most famous Sophists, boldly declared that “man is the measure of all things.” Unlike Plato or Aristotle, who sought universal truths, Protagoras argued that truth and morality depend on human perception. His agnostic stance on the gods and his reputation as a master of rhetoric made him both influential and controversial in democratic Athens. Seen by critics as dangerously relativistic, and by supporters as a practical guide to civic life, his ideas continue to resonate today in debates about cultural relativism, human rights, and the shifting nature of truth.
Edith Stein, also known as Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, was a philosopher, teacher, and nun who left an indelible mark on the intellectual landscape of the 20th century. Born in 1891 in Germany, Stein’s life was one of dynamic shifts—from an early agnosticism, through a brilliant academic career in phenomenology, to her conversion …
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Discover deep thoughts on space, time, cosmos, relativity, and quantum mechanics. Gain insights on universe’s nature and reality through philosophy. (194 characters)
Discover philosophy of action, studying human behavior, agency, and moral responsibility. Learn about free will, decision making, and ethical action in a diverse world.
Examine deep questions about human nature, consciousness, free will, morality, and identity. Gain insights into humanity’s essence, attributes, and potential for ethical decision-making.
Discover personal and collective identity through the philosophy of identity. Explore selfhood, belonging, and meaning in human experience and society.
Examine the philosophy of perception to reveal how sensory experience shapes our understanding of reality and influences our knowledge and cognition.