Core branches of Philosophy

• What are the core branches of Philosophy?

  Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics, Aesthetics
• Methaphysics word etymology


  from Greek word metaphysika, meaning beyond physics
• Metaphysics


  It focuses on the study of existence. It seeks to answer the question "what is?". Encompasses everything that exists and the true nature of existence itself
• Epistemology word etymology

  Greek words - episteme (knowledge) and logos (to study)
• Epistemology


  It is the study of the nature and scope of knowledge and justified beliefs. It investigates the acquisition of knowledge.

  Encompasses the nature and construction of concepts, logical reasoning, and even the validity of the perception of the senses. It deals with the process by which people are led to know that something is true
• Domains of Epistemology

  Rationalism and Empiricism
• Rationalism 


  It views REASON as the chief source of knowledge and the most important element in its acquisition. Proposed by Rene Descartes
• Empiricism 


  Asserts that all of a person's knowledge comes from their five senses. Proposed by John Locke.
• Ethics etymology

  Greek word: ethos (custom or habit)
• Ethics domains

  Methaetics, normative ethics, applied ethics
• Metaethics 


  Deals with the origin and meaning of ethical concepts. It responds to questions focusing on the meaning of ethical terms such as "good" and "bad" issues on the universally accepted truths and even people's justifications of their own judgments.
• Normative ethics


  It is concerned with the setting of certain standards of what is morally right and morally wrong. It involves the formulation of set values or moral norms which have an impact as to what should be the people's actions and way of life.
• Applied ethics


  It attempts to apply theories to situations in real life. It involves examining controversial issues such as abortion, euthanasia, environmental concerns, and even animal rights. The solution to these problems are being used in the formulation of public policy.
• Aesthetics etymology

  Greek word: aisthetikos meaning "of sense perception"
• Aesthetics


  It deals with the nature and appreciation of art, beauty, and good taste. It encompasses all the responses people may solicit from all forms of art, can be negative or positive. Proposed by Immanuel Kant.