Module 5 - Foundations Of Western Philosophy: Foundations Of Modern Metaphysics And Empiricism Flashcards
True or False: “Why are certain insects attracted to flowers in bloom” is an example of an observation/question?
true
True or False: A hypothesis is a conjecture, based on knowledge obtained while formulating the question, that may explain any given phenomenon or behavior.
true
Based on the question and hypothesis, a scientist or researcher will make a __________ that deduces the logical consequences of the hypothesis before the outcome is known. The prediction is a result you’d expect to get if your hypothesis or theory is accurate.
prediction
Experimentation/Testing: In this step, the scientist must develop suitable tests or experiments to produce actual results that can be compared to the predicted results based on the _______.
hypothesis
After testing is complete, the collected results are analyzed and compared to the predicted results based on the hypothesis. The difference between expected results versus actual results will _______ or ________ the hypothesis and determine net steps in the process. As part of the data analysis step, evidence for other scientists or researchers may be incorporated.
validate, invalidate
According to Descartes, a belief can count as knowledge even if there is a slight chance it is wrong.
false
Why does Descartes initially think we must distrust our internal reasonings?
An evil demon could be manipulating our thoughts.
What is the name of the view according to which certain knowledge is unattainable and our epistemic lives are hopeless?
Cartesian Skepticism
Just when it seems Descartes has proved nothing at all can be known for certain, what famous declaration does he make?
“I think, therefore I am”
After doubting everything, Descartes thinks we can rebuild our knowledge upon the solid foundation of what?
clear and distinct perception
what is materialism?
The view that the universe is solely composed of physical, tangible, spatially extended objects
Hobbes was a determinist.
true
what is determinism?
The view that nothing happens in the universe by chance. All events are the necessary consequence of antecedent causes
what is egotism?
The view that humans, by nature, always seek some personal gain when acting voluntarily
As egotists, preprogrammed to pursue their personal desires, what three specific things do humans desire, according to Hobbes?
power, honor, and self preservation
For Locke, what were the two modes of experience?
sensation and reflection
John Locke was a fierce critic of materialism.
false
Locke believed that at birth the human mind was _________.
a blank slate
John Locke was a proponent of indirect realism.
true
what is an innate idea?
An idea that all people have from birth and need not be taught