Mythical vs. Rational Explanation: Science & Philosophy

ITEM 1

Mythical Explanation Features:

• Personification and deification of natural forces and phenomena (e.g., lightning, water).
• The phenomena of the universe occur arbitrarily.
• Mythical explanations are accepted as true due to tradition and authority.
• The authority of tradition is unquestioned.

Rational Explanation Features:

• No reliance on gods or supernatural agents. The concept of nature (physis) emerges.
• Things happen when they must and as they should. The idea of nature is linked to necessity and law.
• A rational explanation is considered true based on the strength of underlying reasons and arguments.
• It can be discussed and subjected to critique.

Characteristics of Science:

• It is rational, logical knowledge using mathematical language.
• It seeks to understand reality and establish laws governing the universe.
• It strives for maximum precision and accuracy, focusing on observable and measurable phenomena.
• Its statements can be tested against reality.
• It is predictive, aiming to forecast future events.
• It is characterized by specialization.
• It employs various methods depending on the objects of study.

Characteristics of Philosophy:

• It is logical and rational knowledge using conceptual language.
• It seeks to understand everything, not just the observable and measurable, aiming to comprehend reality and the various facets of human existence.
• Philosophy is driven by the desire for knowledge and the pursuit of happiness.
• It is not testable through experiments.
• It seeks to connect all the results of scientific knowledge to achieve cohesion and unity.
• It raises questions that lie within the limits of science or its foundation.

What Philosophy Is:

Philosophy vs. Religion:

• Religion is based on revelation. Philosophy relies on human experience of reality and rational reflection.
• Religion uses faith to affirm its truths; philosophy requires reasons.
• Religion seeks salvation; philosophical learning aims to understand reality.
• Religion consists of dogma and liturgical worship. Neither dogma nor worship are part of philosophy.

Philosophy vs. Literature:

Philosophy is responsible for providing a true explanation of reality. Literature seeks to entertain, create formal beauty, etc.