Philosophy: meaning, definitions and examples

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philosophy

[fɪˈlɒsəfi ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

study of

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline.

Synonyms

discipline, field, study.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
philosophy	Philosophy is best used when discussing a broad, in-depth exploration of fundamental questions about existence, morality, knowledge, reason, and reality. She decided to pursue a degree in philosophy. The novel delves into deep philosophy about the meaning of life.
study	Study can refer to the act of learning about a subject or to an academic investigation into a specific topic. She decided to study ancient history. The study revealed new insights into human behavior.
discipline	Discipline refers to a specific branch of knowledge, typically in an academic or professional context. Psychology is a discipline within the social sciences. Engineering is an essential discipline for technological advancement.
field	Field is used to describe a broader area of study or professional work, often encompassing multiple disciplines. He is well-known in the field of environmental science. Many researchers contribute to the field of medicine.

Examples of usage

Studying philosophy helps us to better understand the world around us.
Many great philosophers have made significant contributions to the field of philosophy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'philosophia,' meaning 'love of wisdom.'
The term was first used by the ancient Greek thinker Pythagoras around 580-500 BC.
In ancient Greece, philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle shaped many ideas we still discuss today.

Historical Influence

The Renaissance saw a rebirth of philosophical thought, leading to advancements in science and human rights.
During the Enlightenment, philosophers like Descartes and Kant promoted reason as the primary source of authority and legitimacy.
The works of existential philosophers in the 20th century questioned the meaning of existence, influencing literature and psychology.

Branches of Philosophy

There are many branches, including ethics (the study of right and wrong), metaphysics (what is real), and epistemology (the study of knowledge).
Political philosophy examines how societies should be organized and what justice means.
Aesthetic philosophy delves into art and beauty, asking what makes something beautiful or valuable.

Cultural Impact

Eastern philosophies like Confucianism and Taoism offer different perspectives on ethics and the nature of reality compared to Western thought.
Philosophy has influenced major world religions, prompting debates on morality and existence.
In popular culture, philosophical themes often appear in literature, film, and art, exploring questions about life and human experience.

Science and Philosophy

Philosophy of science examines the foundations and implications of scientific theories and practices.
Many scientists, like Einstein and Hawking, also explored philosophical questions about the universe.
The dialogue between philosophy and science pushes the boundaries of what we can comprehend about reality.

Translations

Translations of the word "philosophy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 filosofia

🇮🇳 दर्शनशास्त्र

🇩🇪 Philosophie

🇮🇩 filsafat

🇺🇦 філософія

🇵🇱 filozofia

🇯🇵 哲学

🇫🇷 philosophie

🇪🇸 filosofía

🇹🇷 felsefe

🇰🇷 철학

🇸🇦 فلسفة

🇨🇿 filozofie

🇸🇰 filozofia

🇨🇳 哲学

🇸🇮 filozofija

🇮🇸 heimspeki

🇰🇿 философия

🇬🇪 ფილოსოფია

🇦🇿 filosofiya

🇲🇽 filosofía

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,937, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1934 track
1935 soldiers
1936 laboratory
1937 philosophy
1938 unique
1939 welfare
1940 leadership
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