Fundamental Concepts in Philosophy and Science

Instinct

Instinct refers to genetically determined guidelines for stationary behavior that occur in all normal animals of a species.

Myths

Myths are stories repeated consistently, explaining the origin and destiny of the human community in which they are effective, often detailing significant events.

Anthropomorphic

Anthropomorphic describes the belief that everything happening in the world is the result of actions by gods who resemble humans but possess significantly greater power.

Analysis

Analysis involves breaking down a complex whole into its constituent, simpler elements.

Summary

A summary involves synthesizing various simpler elements to form a more complex, cohesive whole.

Radical

A radical approach focuses not on how things work, but on whether they possess meaning and what that meaning entails.

Uncritical

Uncritical refers to an approach that does not criticize, provide self-justification, explain, analyze, or investigate. It accepts without questioning.

Unfounded

Unfounded claims are unsubstantiated, lacking any demonstration or proof. What is claimed may or may not be true, but there is no way to verify its truth or falsity.

Sector

A sector addresses specific parts or areas of reality. It refines the scope of inquiry, thereby limiting problems and allowing for an exhaustive study within its boundaries.

Intersubjective

Intersubjective refers to something backed by shared experience, validated by others, or confirmed by the majority through testing.

Communicable

Communicable means that any individual with the necessary resources can replicate experiments confirming scientific theories, thereby fostering awareness and learning.

Existential Questions

Existential questions are fundamental inquiries posed by humans, often challenging one's very existence and being essential for living a personal life. These questions arise about what to do with one's life and how to share it with others.

Subjective Problems

Subjective problems are difficulties whose resolution primarily affects the individual experiencing them.

Objective Problems

Objective problems involve challenges that exist independently, regardless of individual perception.

Theoretical Problems

Theoretical problems are those that impact the scope of reality, often addressed by technicians, scientists, and philosophers.

Practical Problems

Practical problems are those that directly affect behavior and require actionable solutions.

Formal Science

Formal sciences, such as mathematics and logic, do not deal with empirical facts and do not provide information about reality directly.

Experimental Science

Experimental sciences, including natural and social sciences, deal with empirical facts and provide information about reality through observation and experimentation.

Hypotheses

Hypotheses are assumptions based on observed data that are subsequently tested and demonstrated.

Induction

Induction is a form of reasoning that moves from specific, smaller, or less general data to a broader conclusion. Inductive reasoning provides probable conclusions, not absolute certainty.

Interpretation

Interpretation involves explaining or making sense of data, texts, ideas, or beliefs, often by assigning meaning or clarifying implications.