|
||
Definition:
This is the doctrine that everything is either made only of matter or is ultimately
dependent upon matter for its existence and nature. This most often comes up with
questions about the mind - are mental events material or themselves the result of
matter, or are they the result of something immaterial, like a soul?
Atheists are usually materialists of some sort, rejecting the idea that there exists anything independent of the workings of matter and energy. Indeed, materialism entails atheism unless a person believes in a purely physical god, which doesn't seem very god-like.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Epistemology?
Epistemology is the investigation into the grounds and nature of knowledge itself. Epistemological studies are usually focused upon our means for acquiring knowledge, and as a consequence, modern epistemology generally involves a debate between rationalism and empiricism, or the question of whether knowledge can be acquired a priori or a posteriori.What is Philosophy?
What is philosophy? Is there any point in studying philosophy, or is it a useless subject? What are the different branches of philosophy - what's the difference between aestheitcs and ethics? What's the difference between metaphysics and epistemology?
