Introduction to Philosophy Introduction to Philosophy Jason M. Chang

Lecture Outline 1. Defining philosophy 2. Relevance of philosophy 3. Beginnings of philosophy

Defining Philosophy Literal translation (from Greek) Questions of philosophy o Irresolvable o Interminable o Inescapable

Defining Philosophy Branches of philosophy o Metaphysics o Epistemology o Ethics o Aesthetics o Logic o Scope of these branches  The Wikipedia test (

Defining Philosophy Answers in philosophy o Wrong ways to arrive at answers o Right way to arrive at answers Aim of philosophy o Different from religion and science

Defining Philosophy A discipline that aims at truth about or understanding of reality, existence, and meaning through disciplined reasoning Red – the aim Blue – the topics Yellow – the method

Relevance of Philosophy Why study philosophy? 1. Critical thinking skills 2. Skills in argumentation 3. Communication skills 4. To be like Bruce Lee To be like Bruce Lee 5. Plato’s answer Source:

Relevance of Philosophy - Plato’s answer Introduction to Plato Plato’s cave o “Imagine a dark scene…” Plato BC

Relevance of Philosophy - Plato’s answer Prisoners in the cave o Features of the prisoners o Prisoners as a metaphor for what? Escapee who ascends the cave o Features of the escapee o Escapee as a metaphor for what?

Relevance of Philosophy - Plato’s answer The importance of philosophy for Plato Frees us from our prejudices Enlarges our understanding of the True and Good Part of a well-lived human life

Beginnings of Philosophy Introduction to Socrates Socrates BC

Beginnings of Philosophy Why is Socrates important? Represents philosophy (and the examined life) Challenged others to live the examined life Willing to die for philosophy

Beginnings of Philosophy Socrates’ mission in life Origins of his mission o Oracle of Delphi’s proclamation o Recognition of corruption and ignorance o Twofold mission

Beginnings of Philosophy Carrying out his mission Challenge to Athenians Socratic method Public reception of Socrates’ actions

Beginnings of Philosophy Socrates’ trial and execution Official charges Socrates in jail Socrates’ execution (399 BC)