Categories: All - determinism - realism

by Hazel Kalsi 9 months ago

101

The Big Questions Of Our Existence

Explorations into human existence often delve into the nature of free will, the existence of a deity, and the reality of the external world. Determinism posits that all events, including human actions, are predetermined, potentially negating free will.

The Big Questions Of Our Existence

The Big Questions Of Our Existence

"Does God Exist?"

Pantheism
Pantheism, a belief in the divine being identical to the universe, is exemplified by Spinoza and some Eastern philosophies, including some forms of Hinduism.
Deism
Deism acknowledges a creator but views them as distant and uninvolved, arguing that they do not intervene in human affairs or the natural world after creation.
Theism
Theism, a monotheistic religion, posits a personal, transcendent, and omniscient deity who created and governs the universe, as seen in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

"Does the world really exist?"

Materialism
Materialism, often linked to scientific reductionism, asserts that reality's fundamental substance is physical and that the world, including consciousness, can be explained through material processes.
Idealism
Idealism posits that reality is primarily mental, based on consciousness, with prominent philosophers like George Berkeley and Advaita Vedanta interpreting Eastern philosophies.
Realism
Realism, a metaphysical position, asserts the objective existence of the external world, despite human perception or observation, often associated with philosophers like Plato and Aristotle.

"Do we have free will?"

Indeterminism
Indeterminism in metaphysical perspectives suggests events, including human choices, are not strictly determined by prior causes, introducing randomness and unpredictability, potentially allowing for free will.
Compatibilism
Compatibilist views reconcile determinism with free will, arguing that events can be causally determined as long as individuals act according to their own desires and motivations.
Determinism
Deterministic metaphysical perspectives suggest that all events, including human actions, are predetermined by prior causes, potentially implying a lack of free will.

"What is our place in the universe?"

Holism
Metaphysical traditions like Taoism and Buddhism often adopt a holistic view, viewing the universe as interconnected and interdependent, treating humans as integral components.
Cosmic Insignificance
Scientific discoveries, suggest humanity's insignificance in the vast universe, contrasting with anthropocentrism, which views humanity as a small part of a larger, indifferent cosmos.
Anthropocentrism
An anthropocentric perspective, often embraced by creationist religious beliefs, places humans at the center of the universe, emphasizing their significance in the grand scheme of existence.

"What is the meaning of life?"

Theistic Metaphysics
Religious metaphysical perspectives suggest life's meaning is linked to a higher purpose, often involving fulfilling divine will, spiritual growth, and establishing a divine connection.
Absurdism
Albert Camus' perspective suggests life is absurd, and seeking rational meaning is futile. Instead, individuals should confront existence's absurdity and find meaning in it.
Existentialism
Philosophers like Sartre and Camus say that life has no inherent meaning, and focuses on individual responsibility and freedom through choices and actions.