Metaphysical

Metaphysical refers to the branch of philosophy that studies the ultimate nature of reality, including the relationship between mind and matter, substance and attribute, potentiality and actuality. The word "metaphysical" is derived from the Greek words "meta" (beyond) and "physika" (physics).

History[edit | edit source]

The term "metaphysics" was first used by Aristotle, who combined the words "meta" and "physika" to describe the study of "what comes after physics". This was later misinterpreted by Medieval scholars to mean "the science of what is beyond the physical".

Branches of Metaphysics[edit | edit source]

Metaphysics is divided into two main branches: ontology, which studies the nature of being and existence; and cosmology, which studies the origin and structure of the universe.

Ontology[edit | edit source]

Ontology is the study of being and existence. It explores questions such as "What is existence?", "What is a thing?", "What is the nature of reality?" and "What is the meaning of life?".

Cosmology[edit | edit source]

Cosmology is the study of the origin and structure of the universe. It explores questions such as "What is the nature of the universe?", "What is its origin?" and "What is its destiny?".

Metaphysical Theories[edit | edit source]

There are many different theories within metaphysics, including dualism, monism, idealism, materialism, and pluralism.

Dualism[edit | edit source]

Dualism is the belief that reality is composed of two fundamental types of substance: mind and matter.

Monism[edit | edit source]

Monism is the belief that reality is composed of a single type of substance.

Idealism[edit | edit source]

Idealism is the belief that reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual in nature.

Materialism[edit | edit source]

Materialism is the belief that reality is fundamentally physical or material in nature.

Pluralism[edit | edit source]

Pluralism is the belief that reality is composed of multiple types of substance.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Metaphysical Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.