1.

Epistemology
Epistemology is the study of knowledge. Epistemology deals with the process by which we
can know that something is true. It addresses questions such as:
--What can I know?
--How is knowledge acquired?
--Can we be certain of anything?

Within epistemology there are two important categoriesrationalism and empiricism.

Rationalism stresses reason as the most important element in knowing. Rationalism holds that
knowledge is gained primarily through the mind. It also asserts that we are born with innate ideas
that precede any experiences we may have with our physical senses.

Empiricism, on the other hand, asserts that all our knowledge comes from our five senses. To use
the terminology of the empiricist, John Locke, our minds are a blank slate at birth. Thus
knowledge comes from our experiences.

2. Metaphysics
Metaphysics is the study of reality. More specifically it is the study of reality that is beyond the
scientific or mathematical realms. The term metaphysics itself literally means beyond the
physical. The metaphysical issues most discussed are the existence of God, the soul, and the
afterlife.

3. Ethics
Ethics is the study of moral value, right and wrong. Ethics is involved with placing value to
personal actions, decisions, and relations. Important ethical issues today include abortion, sexual
morality, the death penalty, euthanasia, pornography, and the environment.

4. Logic
Logic is the study of right reasoning. It is the tool philosophers use to study other philosophical
categories. Good logic includes the use of good thinking skills and the avoidance of logic
fallacies.

5. Aesthetics
Aesthetics is the study of art and beauty. It attempts to address such issues as:
--What is art?
--What is the relationship between beauty and art?
--Are there objective standards by which art can be judged?
--Is beauty in the eye of the beholder?