Category: Philosophy

Platonic idealism, also known as Platonic realism, is a philosophical theory developed by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato (c. 428/427 BCE – c. 348/347 BCE). It posits the existence of abstract, non-material entities known as Forms or Ideas, which are considered to be the true reality behind the changing and imperfect world of appearances. Key…

Platonic epistemology refers to the theory of knowledge developed by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato (c. 428/427 BCE – c. 348/347 BCE). Plato’s epistemology is intricately connected to his broader metaphysical and ethical views, and it explores the nature, sources, and limits of human knowledge. Key features and characteristics of Platonic epistemology include: Theory of…

Physicalism, also known as materialism, is a philosophical position that asserts that everything in the universe is ultimately reducible to physical entities and processes. According to physicalism, the only things that exist are physical entities, and all phenomena, including mental states, consciousness, and abstract concepts, can be fully explained by physical properties and laws. Key…

Phenomenology is a philosophical and methodological approach that seeks to understand and describe human experience as it is directly perceived and lived. It was founded by the German philosopher Edmund Husserl in the early 20th century and has since developed into a diverse and influential philosophical movement. Key features and characteristics of phenomenology include: Description…

Personalism is a philosophical and ethical perspective that places a strong emphasis on the value, dignity, and significance of the individual person. It holds that human beings are unique, conscious, and relational beings with inherent worth, and it seeks to understand and promote the importance of personal experience and relationships in all aspects of life.…

The Peripatetic school, also known as the Aristotelian school, was a philosophical tradition founded by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 BCE). The name “Peripatetic” comes from the Greek word “peripatetikos,” which means “walking about” or “strolling.” It refers to the fact that Aristotle often conducted his philosophical discussions while walking with his students in…

Perennial philosophy, also known as perennialism, is a perspective in the philosophy of religion that posits the existence of a universal and timeless spiritual wisdom or truth that is shared across different cultures, religious traditions, and historical periods. It suggests that beneath the surface diversity of religious beliefs and practices, there exists a core set…

The Oxford Franciscan School was a philosophical and theological movement associated with the Franciscan order at the University of Oxford during the 13th and 14th centuries. It was part of the broader scholastic tradition that flourished in medieval Europe, and it centered on the study and interpretation of the works of St. Augustine and St.…

The Oxford Calculators were a group of scholars and mathematicians associated with the University of Oxford during the 14th century. They were part of the intellectual movement known as the Oxford School of Mathematics, which focused on advancing the study of various branches of mathematics, particularly in the areas of astronomy and physics. Key features…

Occamism, also known as Ockhamism or Ockham’s Razor, is a principle of simplicity and parsimony attributed to the medieval philosopher and theologian William of Ockham (c. 1287-1347). The principle is often summarized as “Entities should not be multiplied beyond necessity,” or “The simplest explanation is usually the correct one.” Key principles and characteristics of Occamism…