metaphysics etymology

Etymology

The word "metaphysics" comes from the Greek words "meta" (after) and "physikos" (physical).

Meaning

  • Literally, "metaphysics" means "after physics."
  • In philosophy, metaphysics refers to the branch of inquiry that deals with the fundamental nature of reality, existence, and the world as a whole.

Origin

  • Initially, the term "metaphysics" was used by Aristotle to refer to the sections of his work that came after the sections on physics.

  • These later sections explored more abstract concepts, such as:

    • The nature of being
    • The nature of substance
    • The nature of causality
    • The nature of consciousness
  • Over time, the term "metaphysics" became synonymous with the study of these fundamental questions about reality.

Key Concepts in Metaphysics

Metaphysics encompasses a wide range of topics, including:

  • Ontology: The study of being and existence
  • Cosmology: The study of the universe as a whole
  • Epistemology: The study of knowledge and belief
  • Ethics: The study of morality and values
  • Aesthetics: The study of beauty and art
  • Philosophy of mind: The study of the nature of consciousness and the mind

metaphysics relate terms

  • physics

    Etymology The term physics originates from the Ancient Greek word physikos meaning

  • physic

    Etymology The word physics derives from the Greek word φυσική physike meani

  • metaphysic

    Etymology The word metaphysic is derived from the Greek words meta μέτα mea

  • metaphysics

    Etymology The word metaphysics comes from the Greek words meta after and physikos

  • metaphysical

    Etymology The word metaphysical is derived from two Greek words meta μετά m

  • egoism

    Etymology and Origin The word egoism derives from the Latin term ego meaning I

  • monad

    Etymology The term monad comes from the Greek word μονάς monas meaning a sin

  • cosmology

    Etymology The word cosmology comes from the Greek words κόσμος kosmos meanin

  • mathematics

    Etymology and Origin of Mathematics The word mathematics is derived from the Greek w

  • philosophy

    Etymology The word philosophy is derived from the Greek words philo φίλο meani

  • spurious

    Meaning Spurious etymology is the false or mistaken belief about the origin or meaning o