Areas of Study
We cannot give a single sentence which explains what all philosophy is about. Still, we can get some appreciation of what philosophy includes if we consider several areas of philosophy.
Metaphysics
This includes the study of the most general concepts and systems of concepts. For example, the concepts of cause and effect, or the concept of physical object. Questions that can be asked include how such systems of concepts are selected, and how they are justified. Metaphysics also investigates the question of what very basic kinds of things exist: Does God exist? Do numbers exist? Metaphysical principles underlie both common sense beliefs and scientific knowledge. The philosopher tries to uncover these and subject them to careful analysis.
Epistemology
Epistemology is also called the theory of knowledge. This study attempts to determine the nature of knowledge and belief, the relation of knowledge and belief to experience, and their relation to external objects. It examines the relations between belief and evidence. For example: How can I know what someone else experiences? Is objective knowledge of the world possible or is all knowledge dependent on unprovable points of view or subjective concepts?
Ethics
Ethics considers such basic questions of practical life as: What makes some things good and others bad, some acts right and others wrong? Do we have responsibilities to others? Are human beings free? A variety of specialized courses consider ethical questions arising in specific areas: Social and Ethical Values in Medicine, Business Ethics, Law and Morality, etc.
Social and Political Philosophy
These areas cover topics such as the relationship between the individual and society, the relationship between the power of the state and individual liberties, the basis of rights and responsibilities. General political theories such as liberalism, conservatism, communism and fascism are examined in the light of general theoretical principles, the underlying concepts of human nature, etc.
Logic
Logic investigates the forms of correct and incorrect reasoning, showing the pitfalls of various kinds of fallacious reasoning based on ambiguity, vagueness, emotional appeals, metaphors, etc. Logic helps to develop critical and effective reading and writing skills, and the clear and cogent argumentation necessary for civic and professional life.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics studies the principles according to which works of art are good or bad, beautiful or ugly. Is artistic appreciation simply a matter of taste which varies from one person to another, or are there objective features which make one painting (play, poem, novel, symphony) superior to another?
Philosophy of Law
Many students ask whether philosophy offers any special preparation for later studies leading to professions other than the teaching of philosophy. A good example of the vocational or professional preparation that is possible through philosophy courses is provided by the legal field. Training in logical thinking, in general conceptual analysis, and stress on clear argumentation are of great value to a student looking to a future career in law. Courses in ethics, and social and political philosophy deal with general issues related to law. In addition, specialized courses are offered such as: Philosophy of Law; Law and Morality; Law and Responsibility.
Philosophy of
For most subjects, there is a study called the philosophy of that subject. So, for example, there is a philosophy of science including the philosophy of natural science and the philosophy of social science. We even find the philosophy of physics and the philosophy of psychology. In addition to philosophy of scientific subjects, there are also the philosophy of law and the philosophy of mathematics. These areas of philosophy study general features of the various subject matters. The philosophy of X studies the presuppositions and methods of X. It determines the nature of results to be achieved by X.