Understanding Reality: Metaphysics, God, and the World

The Nature of Reality

1) Common Sense Realism: There is a real, external world perceived through our senses and analyzed by science.

2) Skepticism: Our senses may not provide a reliable picture of the outside world, sometimes deceiving us with illusions.

3) Idealism: When we analyze the world, we only have our ideas about it. There is only the universe of our minds and perceptions.

4) Phenomenalism: It is not possible to provide a general picture of the world. The real world is the set of sensory phenomena and perceptions.

Metaphysics

Metaphysics is the study of the fundamental features of reality and being.

Metaphysical Traits

1) Knowledge of Principles: Metaphysics analyzes the first principles of reality, from which all other principles are derived, helping us understand our thoughts.

2) Radical Character: It analyzes the root of reality, seeking the essence of concrete things through continuous critical examination.

3) Universal Claim: It aims to bridge the gap between particular things, seeking the overall meaning of reality.

4) Human-Centered Reference: All problems discussed relate to the human universe, seeking the meaning of reality and existence.

God and the World

Metaphysics addresses the problem of God through three sets of rational inquiries:

The Concept of God

God is considered a self-sufficient being who exists independently. God is the supreme being, representing the peak of perfection.

Proofs of God's Existence

Metaphysics considers rational proofs for God's existence. There are three main types of arguments:

• Ontological Argument: God is perfect; therefore, God cannot not exist, as non-existence would be an imperfection.
• Cosmological Argument: There must be a necessary cause for the cosmos or universe.
• Teleological Argument: The world's order requires the existence of a supreme being, which is God.

Relations Between God and the World

Two main positions support these relationships:

1. Creation: God created the world, which now follows its own laws without divine intervention.
2. Providence: After creation, God continues to exercise providential work in the world.