Cornucopia of Philosophical Questions (2)

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Rory asked:

This is probably an easy question. This question deals with the Sinatra "doo be doo be doo" joke.

I am not sure who said the two other phrases that many are given credit for:

1) "To be is to do" phrase, supposedly said by Kant, Plato, Sartre, Aristotle, and/ or Descartes.

2) "To do is to be" phrase, supposedly said by Sartre, Socrates, Plato, and/ or Nietzsche.

My question is: who said what? Who should be given credit for the two phrases? (Or if more than one person said each phrase, who said it first?)

Lucy asked:

I am studying The View from Nowhere by thomas Nagel and I can't define his arguments in defence of realism. I know he uses primary and moral properties but I can't see how his arguments work.

Manie asked:

This question is on Kant's Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals:

1. How and why must the foundation of morality be independent of happiness?

2. How and why must morality and happiness nevertheless be necessarily connected?

3. Can you explain the thing-in-itself/ appearance distinction in Kant's theoretical philosophy with regard to: a) Knowledge b) Freedom?

Melody asked:

What did Plato and Aristotle agree and disagree on?

Jenny asked:

What, for Isiah Berlin, was the proper subject matter of philosophical study? Please briefly characterize this subject matter.

With what were the early Greek philosophers of nature most concerned?

In what way could Newton have been said to have completed the so-called "scientific revolution"?

Rosario asked:

What is happiness according to Kant, Plato and Aristotle? How would you criticise their views?

Aw asked:

Is Mutual Advantage a concept which yields the minimal state? Why or why not?

Aw also asked:

How are Rawls' difference principle and Nozick's principle of free transfer similar? How do they disagree?

Colleen asked:

How does Sartre justify his claim that we choose for all persons?

Micalea asked:

Why does Sartre believe that atheism is the first essential step to authenticity? What are the logical consequences of believing existentially that god does or doesn't exist?

Jesse asked:

I am in a metaphysics class and am writing a paper about the concept sex. The assignment is to compare and contrast two of the philosophers that we have read in class. One of the two has to be Ayn Rand and the other, of my chose is Locke. I am confused at how to format such a paper. If you have any suggestions that would help, I would greatly appreciate any input.

Jesse also asked:

How does Leibniz in section 13 [Discourse on Metaphysics?] attempt to solve the problem of free will?

Carla asked:

Compare Descartes and Hume on what can be known and how it can be known. What role does the representational theory of knowledge play in their thinking about these matters?

Carla also asked:

Compare Hobbes, Locke, and Berkeley on our knowledge of ourselves and the world around us. How do their views make use of the representational theory of knowledge?

Sarin asked:

Could you explain to me thoroughly this aphorism from Nietzsche:

"Morality is only a sign language of emotions."

Deborah asked:

Please could you tell me the principal differences between a Stoic and a Hedonist?

Paul asked:

What was Epicurus' theory of law and justice? I believe he is a legal positivist. I know that Hobbes was a legal positivist. How do the two compare in their view of the law?

Tonya asked:

If you read Marx Communist Manifesto, Freud Civilization and its Discontents and Gandhi, can you comment on the meaning of contemporary civilization and its ills?

Kristina asked:

I was wondering if you could give me some information about Plato's Forms. What do they mean? Why do they relate to justice?

Also, why is social justice linked to Plato? And what do the four virtues, wisdom, courage, self-discipline, and justice mean?

Adam asked:

How would philosopher Martin Buber interpret the "Book of Job," specifically, the problem of evil?

Immacon asked:

I am from the Philippines. My question is a part of my project in logic. I am quite confused about the philosophy of Herbert Marcuse's freedom and liberty and his logical thinking about this. I hope that your response will give a great help to me.

Brynjar asked:

I was just wondering if you could recommend some beginner's level books on language/ linguistics and the understanding of common languages, how one perceives feelings, emotions, and objects by simple sounds made by us to communicate?

Sean asked:

Is there a connection between Nietzsche and E.T.A. Hoffmann, or Nietzsche and L. Delibes? I have a gut twisting need to know if L. Delibes' "Flower Duet" had anything to do with Friedrich in any way. I hope this question doesn't sound absurd, but it is important to me, so if anyone knows anything I would really appreciate a serious response.

Alex asked:

How does addiction fit into Rawls' theory of justice? If it's a disease, then we would want resources devoted to rehabilitation. If addiction is solely based on will-power, then no resources should be spent on rehab. Right?

Monica asked:

What is the definition of the sameness of mind-body criterion and how can I relate it to the movie, "Total Recall?"

Stacey asked:

Could you please help me with these questions? In the Ethics of Ambiguity, what does Beauvoir mean when she claims a moral system must have ambiguity? Does she think it is impossible for an existentialist to abide by a moral system?

Ryan asked:

I was wondering about influences of the classical thinkers (Plato, Aristotle) on St. Augustine. More specifically, with respect to Augustine's thoughts on love.

Rachelle asked:

I need the definition of 'identity negotiation' pertaining to a religious studies course

Peter asked:

Aristotle argues that the dramatist should choose "a persuasive impossibility over an unpersuasive possibility".

Does he mean that it's better to tell a compelling story than a boring one, even if it is untrue? Do you think he would encourage us to alter facts of a "true account" if it served the story?

Tania asked:

What does materialism say about the nature of mind? What reasons are there to believe that materialism is true? Explain the difference between reductive materialism and eliminative materialism. Which account is more plausible?

Tracy asked:

Explain the difference between teleological and deontological ethical theories. Give an account of the strengths and weaknesses of each type of theory, and arrive at a conclusion about which comes out looking best.

Matt asked:

Explain the epistemological position of rationalism and empiricism, and use some examples of different kinds of knowledge to give an overview of the debate between them. Which position is most plausible?

Sufiyan asked:

Psychology is the scientific view of human beings. if the instrumentalist view of scientific theory turned out to be correct, how would it change what you have learned about human beings from psychology? if the conceptual relativist view of scientific theory turned out to be correct, how would it change what you have learned from psychology?

Sufiyan also asked:

Can you give examples of any statements of science that we accept as true because they clearly correspond to reality? Any statements of science that we accept as true because they provide accurate predictions? Any statements of science that we accept as true because they cohere with other parts of science?

Kara asked:

I was wondering if anyone could suggest some fairly brief sources of Ancient Greek text that I could use as additional resources for a research paper based on Vol. 2 of Michel Foucault's History of Sexuality?

I need at least three more; I am already using Plato's Phaedrus.

Erica asked:

What are the three so-called pillars that provide the foundation for alternative treatment for blood transfusions?

Robbert asked:

I am an Aerospace student from Holland and I saw a quiz in a student magazine about the discussion on 'free will'. I did some research myself but I hope that you would like to give your opinion on it. The question is the following:

Which argument was used at the end of the Middle Ages in the discussion about 'free will'?

A) that a donkey (ass) between 2 haystacks will never starve

B) that a soul who leaves the body keeps its identity

C) that 'unfree will' cannot be 'will'

The question is obviously about the Buridan's Ass story, in which an ass stands between 2 identical haystacks and was not able to choose and therefore starved to death. But to me this is in contrast with answer A. B doesn't make any sense, which would lead me to answer C. But I don't exactly know what that would mean with respect to the Buridan's Ass story. I would like to know what your answer to this question would be.

Aireene asked:

I'm a graduating student of A.B. Communication Arts in a reputable university here in the Philippines. We have a subject called Social Philosophy and I was assigned to report on the "philosophy of death". I need to know it's philosophical basis in order to generalize my data. And also, if there's a conflict to be resolved in this particular topic.

Zoha asked:

I have to submit an assignment on the topic "man a machine" and it has to be 3 pages long . So could you please send me the information on it so I can finish my assignment and please help me out as I'm lost into it.

Rajvinder asked:

How is materialism connected to other areas of philosophy?

Michael asked:

What is respect? What are the types of respect? What determines whether or not a person respects another?

Stephy asked:

I'm writing a paper on substance dualism. My thesis is sort of based on Descartes theories vs. Gilbert Ryle's [in The Concept of Mind]. But while I understand Descartes' theory, I don't really understand Ryle's "Ghost in the Machine" theory. Could you explain it to me clearly, and perhaps in laymen's terms?

Okolo asked:

Please I would like you to explain what Marx meant by the "business cycle" in the Communist Manifesto and how capitalist downfall is related to it.

Why is the completion of capitalism's conquest of the world markets a necessary condition for the possibility of communist revolution and why was the Russian revolution therefore not a true communist revolution?

Kamal asked:

I believe in destiny and I also happen to believe that life is what you make of it. If destiny controlled our lives completely, there's no point in free will. The way I see it is that life is like a "choose your own way" book. When I was a child I used to love reading these books because they had so many different endings based on what decisions I made at the end of each chapter. Maybe that's how we work too. God has set up certain milestones in our lives that are going to happen no matter what. What matters is what we decide to in between those milestones and how we end up at them. There are only a number of limited endings, not infinite ones as there would have been if we controlled destiny. My question is that has somebody else talked about this? is there a philosopher out there who has argued this point?

Johal asked:

If the following theory about the philosophy of language is correct — "philosophic questions are really questions about language" — then what is language? and what is the relationship between language and thought, and between language and the world?

Johal also asked:

In aesthetics the theory of nature investigates and compares human art with beauty in the world of nature. Based on this viewpoint, how can people's taste in the arts be taught in schools? and do governments have the right to restrict artistic expression?

Mary asked:

What does our culture presuppose or assume uncritically and what significance does this have for human life today?

Esi asked:

How relevant is utilitarianism to the present society?

How does Mill's utilitarianism apply to the sale of crack cocaine?

Ali asked:

Why is J.L. Mackie's regularity analysis of causation an improvement on the original definitions (i.e. those of necessity and sufficiency)?

Does he include both counterfactual and factual statements in his definition of a non-material conditional, and for that matter what is a non-material conditional?

Autumn asked:

Is Emotivism the correct account of moral judgment?

Demetric asked:

Is civil society "natural" for Locke? If not, how does it differ from the state of nature?

Demetric also asked:

What does Locke mean by the state of mature? Low does it differ from the state of war?

Brian asked:

I would like to know how to apply Utilitarianism, Kantian, Dialogical (Buber) and Virtue Ethics to diversity, particularly 'hate speech'. What would be another good issue involving diversity that each one could apply to (How each apply to race, sex, or age)? How would each be applied to Political Advertising/ Campaigning? How would each be applied to false advertising? How would each be applied to Religious views of different popular western religions? How would each be applied to major issues within the health care industry, perhaps social security, Medicare, and major controversial issues?

My first question is the most important, and if you would be able to answer any of the following that would be wonderful. The questions follow each other in order of importance (first = most, second=next, and so on).

Tashi asked:

Please tell me what the "verifiability principle" is with regards to "logical positivism."

Josh asked:

I've got difficulties with homework. I've got some ideas, but I don't know if they are right or not. And also I would be very happy, if you could add some other ideas referring to each question.

1) Clear definition of 'virtue theory'.

Can I say: 'These are aims of life. The more the virtues you've got, the more moral person you are'?

2) Strengths of this theory.

Can I say: 'It helps to solve some very difficult moral dilemmas'?

3) What's wrong with it?

Can I say: 'No-one can be perfect (have all the virtues). Because then he would not get any pleasure or excitement in his life'?

4) Conclusion.

'It is very important for every one of us to have several numbers of these virtues, because then we can solve some moral dilemmas. But if everybody has got all of the virtues, there would be no point in living a life.'

Patrick asked:

How would Sigmund Freud answer these questions?

1) Why are resiliency, hope, and rebirth such constant factors in the human experience?

2) Do right and wrong have an objective basis? To what extent can they be codified and specified in law or moral codes?

3) How much freedom do humans truly have to make significant choices in their lives?

4) Why have essentially all people and cultures preferred, honored, and encouraged certain character qualities while dishonoring others? (e.g. courage over cowardice, honesty over falseness, justice over injustice, fidelity over promiscuity harmony over turmoil, etc.)

Colin asked:

How would Charles Darwin explain the ultimate questions? What are Darwin's views regarding the existence of God, and how would he explain suffering, morality, and the notion of human freedom?

Ravishankar asked:

What exactly is the problem of Belief Revision?

How can we preserve our core beliefs when the new information is very strong and most evident and obtained from the most reliable source?

Why are updates most appropriate for counterfactuals and revisions most appropriate for indicative conditionals?

Atilla asked:

I believe that all things have a mathematical explanation. It exists in the shoes that we wear and the car that we drive. It exists everywhere. But I have been asking the question if infinity exists. It is something we have not proved and cannot give a range to. I think infinity doesn't exist because like God, it is something we have not proved but yet apply. They say the universe is infinite. I believe there is a distinct connection between god and infinity, when we find the end of the universe; I believe we will find an answer to all our questions, including god. A utilitarian would say 'the greatest happiness is for the greatest number' but surely happiness is limited. Do you think my distinction between god and infinity is related and when we find infinity we will find our answer?

Jill asked:

First of all I'd like to thank all the Philosophers, co-ordinators and organizers, for providing such a fantastic and inspirational service to the mass audience that, not only helps but also encourages our young Philosophically inquisitive minds.

Second, my question is concerning Immanuel Kant's and David Hume's view and meaning of Autonomy. What is the underlying meaning of this term and how would Hume react and respond to this view? (I just want some guiding thoughts as to approaching this problem).

Third is a point concerning Astronomy. I've been told that every star is a sun! To me this is mind boggling. If this is true then, I feel that there must be other beings out there, do you agree with this claim?

Andrew asked:

1.) How are we? I wonder if there is one possible answer to all aspects of this question. Obviously, there are many answers to specific parts, some flirting with personal theological views and others dealing with "how" one feels at the time. Still, I can't help but feel that the possibility for one acceptable answer exists.

2.) I've just begun Dr. Faustus, which has caused me to think. At what point does academic freedom become less desirable than community standards? Where does collective morality and knowledge supersede freedom of thought and experiment? (I realize the question is personal, and I would like it to be impersonal, but I cannot word it so that "should" or "ought" are removed. If you could look at this in an impersonal light, I would appreciate it.)

3.) For that matter, should morality ever be weighed below any other ideal? Since "should" implies the choice of the "morally" superior ideal, does the semantics of the question automatically respond?

Huina asked:

What makes a good leader?

Huina also asked:

What conditions existed in Athens in the 5th century B.C. that helped to launch the city's "Golden Age"?

Elnatan asked:

1) According to the First Preface of Kant's Critique of Pure Reason, what is the fate of human reason?

2) According to the First preface, what is metaphysics?

3) According to the Second Preface, what have the natural scientists learned regarding the insights of reason with respect to fixed &and necessary (and therefore a priori) laws?

4) According to the Second Preface, what is the Copernican turn in knowledge with regard to the relation between knowledge and its objects?

5) According to the Second Preface, what is the consequence of the Copernican turn with regard to the 'appearance vs. thing-in-itself' distinction?

6) According to the Second Preface, what does Kant intend in 'making practical knowledge possible by limiting speculative reason'?

Adam asked:

I am a freshman in college and really enjoy philosophy. I have a very good teacher who is really helping me to learn how to think critically, but I am still struggling with his most recent essay question. The question is more or less asking, "Is it more reasonable for one to believe that all people end up in the same state after death (dead with no after-life); or more reasonable to believe that all people end up in different states after death (in either a heaven or a hell based upon the type of life one has lived)? I have been wrestling with this question for for many days now and it's leaving me completely sleep deprived. I am trying to go about this by asking myself what my view is, why I believe this, and what possible arguments someone might raise in light of my view. Any help with this question would be greatly appreciated.

Mike,

How do think Konrad Lorenz would respond to the following questions?

1. Do right and wrong have an objective basis?

2. To what extent can they be codified and specified in law or moral codes?

3. How much freedom do humans truly have?

4. Is there a destiny for higher life forms in the universe... or is all that we know nothing more than a cosmic accident without purpose whatsoever?

5. Why have essentially all people and cultures preferred, honored, and encouraged certain character qualities while dishonoring others? (e.g. courage over cowardice, honesty over falseness, justice over injustice, fidelity over promiscuity, harmony over turmoil, etc.)

6. Is belief in God realism or escapism?

Joe asked:

I have a bunch of questions regarding Sigmund Freud. Each answer is supposed to be what Freud would say:

1. Is there a destiny for higher life forms in the universe...or is all we know nothing more than a cosmic accident without purpose whatsoever?

2. Why are the facts never quite enough for humans, so that people are constantly seeking out meanings, patterns, significance, in both the great and minor events of life?

3. Is belief in God realism or escapism?

4. Does suffering have a point or is it cruel and pointless?

5. Why are resiliency, hope, and rebirth such constant factors in the human experience?

6. Do right and wrong have an objective basis? To what extent can they be codified and specified in law or moral codes?

7. How much freedom do humans truly have to make significant choices in their lives?

8. Why have essentially all people and cultures preferred, honored, and encouraged certain character qualities while dishonoring others? (examples: courage over cowardice, honesty over falseness, justice over injustice, fidelity over promiscuity, harmony over turmoil, etc...)

Erin asked:

How do Plato's ideas on the 'good life', as seen in Gorgias, relate to present Canadian politics?

Benjamin asked:

There have been some philosophers who pursued trichotomies, for instance C.S. Peirce. Do you know of any philosophers who have made a point of pursuing tetrachotomies (4-chotomies)?

Katy asked:

What exactly are Locke's arguments for a primary/ secondary quality distinction? What would be the philosophical significance in accepting the distinction itself?

Liz asked:

What were Spinoza's beliefs on the soul?

Mark asked:

To clarify my position, I am currently studying privately for an A-level in philosophy. For the final unit, I am to "Compare and contrast the views of Descartes and Nietzsche on the possibility of religious faith".

I understand Descartes to be a pious Catholic who attempted to juxtapose science and God in interpreting the world. In his third Meditation, Descartes introduces the "trademark argument", and later a version of the ontological argument in Meditation 5. I understand both Meditations to a good extent, but is there any other relevant Cartesian material you could make me aware of?

Nietzsche was brought up under a strict Lutherian tradition. He literally did have a church in his back yard. Nietzsche's father, both grandfathers, and great grandfather served as ministers. The death of Nietzsche's father when Nietzsche was five, and the death of his younger brother six months later would of had a profound effect.

Theological ideas that may have circulated in Nietzsche's head at this time may of been the problem of evil, and the idea of a world beyond the one we inhabit. A minister wrote to Nietzsche informing him of how his father was looking down from heaven.

At the age of 21, Nietzsche read Schopenhauer's The World As Will And Representation, which could of embedded a certain brand of atheism, that the force underpinning the whole cosmos is a futile "will".

Nietzsche's views also altered at the university of Bonn, in so much as he deviated from the study of biblical texts, and became increasingly interested in Greek and Roman classics. To What extent was Nietzsche influenced by the notion of a polytheistic God?

I understand that Nietzsche ranted about Christianity in his later years.

Well, that's where I've got so far! I thank you for your time, and await any response you wish to give.

Lynn asked:

What makes something true, I understand what makes something real, but what's the difference between something being real and something being true? What is existence?

Christina asked:

To what extent would a postmodern theorist agree AND disagree with Kant's epistemological position?

Natasha asked:

Is there a need for sociologists to be concerned with philosophical questions

Wylie asked:

"Relate Aristotle's theory of the four causes of any item and apply the theory to an object of your choice."

Mokhesi asked:

1) Is there such a thing as 'nothingness' and if there is, what is its relation with being?

2) Can you please tell me more about heidegger's 'being-there'?

Patrick asked:

Can You define "What is a Mind"?

Shay asked:

What are examples of illusion vs. reality in Orwell's book 1984? Illusion vs. reality is a prominent theme in the novel. How is this so?

Ricky asked:

In the Allegory of the Cave, what is Plato's main complaint about democracy?

Terrence asked:

I am currently taking an introduction to philosophy course at Rochester Institute of Technology. My group and I are working on our final project and need to get opinions from various philosophers concerning Descartes dream and evil genius arguments. Could you tell us whether you agree or disagree with Descartes' arguments and how you particularly feel about it?

William asked:

After completing a PhD in Philosophy, why should one have an interest in a postdoctoral fellowship?

Arman asked:

I have just started reading the book, The story of philosophy. I really would like to learn things about philosophy but I just don't get it. I would appreciate if someone would briefly explain to me the view of Plato and Aristotle for example so I would have a better understanding of the book.

Jose asked:

What exactly is love, or to love, how is it produced, and why is it produced. How can I know if I'm in love, or if someone is in love with me. Is it a simple word that describes a feeling. Or a feeling that cannot be described with words. Is it the key to happiness?

Stephanie asked:

How does Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life illustrate contextualism?

Kris asked:

Can you please help me on my essay:

Michelle asked:

What are the major similarities and differences between Buddhist and Humean positions on the self? which do you think is better argued?

Kiandra asked:

Explain social contract theory, what are some of the philosophical criticisms and Is social contract theory a useful way to think about social relations, even if it is a fiction?

Is there a better way to think about the nature of a society and social relations?

Katherine asked:

Could you give a brief explanation of A.J.Ayer's Knowing as having the right to be sure? [Problem of Knowledge].

Kitsos asked:

Is justice for all possible?

Stephen asked:

Could a person's way to happiness be discovered purely by introspection?

Karen asked:

What philosophical thought best describes distance education (online learning)?

Jack asked:

1. What is stoicism and how does it relate to Socrates' life?

2. How can I use Hume's articles on natural theology to critique the proofs for the existence of God?

3. I am having trouble comparing the Plato's and Aristotle's method of doing philosophy and figuring out how this affects the way they scrutinize ethics and political processes.

Rose asked:

I am writing about the validity of Plato's dualist approach to the distinction between the body and the soul. I wondered if you could assess the advantages and disadvantages of claiming there is a distinction between the body and the soul (an obvious advantage is that dualism leaves opportunity for an after life) but I'm struggling to think of other points.

Jamie asked:

This question is on Hume's critique of the teleological argument:

1. State Cleanthes' teleological argument.

2. What did Philo say in objection?

Helen asked:

I am studying Descartes' philosophy.please explain what is the role of the cogito (I think, therefore I am) in detail. Why does Descartes say that? what does he want to prove? how about "I see a tree, therefore I am" and "I run, therefore I am"?

and Jane asked:

Can you explain what role of cogito in Descartes' philosophy is. Why does he say it, and what is connection between cogito and meditation?

Helen also asked:

Can you explain the wax passage in Descartes' 2nd Meditation. One of is roles is to defend rationalism. What is rationalism and how does Descartes' argument for it go? what is the best objection to it?

Jennifer asked:

Are there any good grounds for thinking that human beings are immortal or have an immortal soul?

Dee asked:

"Freedom of action is necessary for moral responsibility." But can free will be defended against the claims of both determinism and fatalism?

Casey asked:

What aspects of G.E. Moore's childhood influenced him to write the "Refutation of Idealism"?

Veronica asked:

When looking at Aristotle's view of Happiness and the ability to flourish (flourishing meaning to succeed as a fully "functioning human being"), he proposes certain conditions that one has to meet in order to be happy, or flourishing. These conditions include:

—proper upbringing

—living in a just and self sufficient community

He says that, similar to other living things, humans will NOT flourish if they are not in the proper environment.

So, my question is: How would Aristotle explain the men and women who have come from "unjust", "un-proper" communities, who have not had "proper upbringing" and still managed to in many ways flourish? For example, as in the times of slavery, blacks were forbidden to learn how to read and write. Now using this as the un-proper environment, say for an African-American who wanted to be a great writer, according to Aristotle, this could not be so since the environment the slave lived in forbade him/ her from learning such a thing. However, as we know, there have been numerous literary greats who wrote eloquent narratives on their lives as a slave, that are still looked on in astonishment because they were in fact, written by a slave. According to Aristotle, this shouldn't be possible. How could one flourish in such a way even though his upbringing and environment couldn't have possibly allowed it?

How do you think Aristotle would answer this?

Shaun asked:

I'm doing a paper for my philosophy class and the topic is "Compare and contrast the positivists and legal realists about law." I'm having a very hard time doing this, I cant find any info on it at all.

Casey asked:

I would like to understand what both Habermas and Dworkin have in common when it comes to a critique of legal positivism.

Boo asked:

What did plato believe about the hearing impaired?

Jonathan asked:

I've been reading Peter Singer's works over the past couple of weeks. Not his works on euthanasia or infanticide but his works on the responsibility of the affluent to the poor. His articles "The Singer's Solution to World Poverty" and "Famine, Affluence and Morality". Also Peter Unger's book Living High and Letting Die has fascinated me. These people have views that I've been thinking about and struggling with but definitely leaning towards to in the past few months — this was before I read them.

I'm interested in your thoughts on this issue. I mean, it's ultimately a practical issue too. And I'm struggling with it. What are your thoughts on Singer's and Unger's views?

Allen asked:

Describe some difficulties that have been encountered in the cloning process. And What is the health of animals that have already been cloned.

Also — What are the actual laws regarding human cloning? like state law, federal law, and international law?

Holly asked:

Ok first of all, can you give me different views about what people actually mean when they call a moral decision 'wrong'? and secondly, discuss the question that right and wrong are just expressions of preference, they do not refer to any absolute set of values. Been working on these for my book and want more views!

Ci-el asked:

Kindly give me some arguments and their explanation, about the question, "Is rightness or wrongness of an action, an act of coercive cultural value or an act of freewill?"

Nidhi asked:

Why should I do what morality requires, if I can better serve my own interests otherwise?

Do 'true'/'false' apply to moral claims, in the way they apply to claims about the physical state of the world? Discuss with reference to two philosophers.

What is ethical relativism? Using your own definition of this term, indicate the strengths and weaknesses of such a theoretical account of values. Do you consider yourself a "relativist" in this sense? why or why not?

"A moral philosophy characteristically presupposes a sociology." What might this mean? Discuss with reference to at least two metaethical theories.

Amanda asked:

What do you believe are the implications for morality of a positivistic ethical theory?

Alfredo asked:

What is exactly Socrates' philosophy of Death?

Katie asked:

Nietzsche begins with the observation that "we men of knowledge" remain "unknown to ourselves." How does Nietzsche propose to answer the question, "Who are we really?"

Lisa asked:

What is the problem of induction? Why can't an argument that establishes it with certainty be found?

Why do empiricists reject the possibility of knowing with certainty how the world is?

Maryn asked:

Compare Euthyphro's journey with that of the prisoner who escapes from the Cave.

Du Le asked:

What are eight definitions of 'Virtue' from Plato's Meno. And why must Socrates get rid of Meno's paradox?

Amber asked:

I'm having a hard time in understanding the relations between skepticism and relativism? Please advise.

Amanda asked:

I've been studying deontology and some of Kant's work and I was wondering what view a deontologist would take on mandatory vaccinations...for or against?

Cindy asked:

How did Aristotle uses his idea of "substances" to support his position on the ultimate reality?

Cindy also asked:

How does Socrates support his assertion that learning is recollection?

Nicholle asked:

1. Explain and critically evaluate either Descartes' Dream conjecture or his Evil Demon conjecture.

2. "Descartes assumed that there cannot be thinking without an 'I' that does the thinking. Since he wanted to question everything, he should have questioned this assumption." Should we agree with this remark?

3. "Material things, including one's own body, are completely subject to physical laws." "The immaterial mind can move one's body." Are these two claims incompatible? Explain.

4. "Nothing can be known." What is a powerful objection to this claim?

5. What is creation Ex Nihilo? State a reason for thinking that creation Ex Nihilo is impossible.

Joe asked:

What is your personal opinion on material monism vs. mind-body dualism?

Mujawo asked:

John Dewey proposed that there is no distinction between philosophy and education. How far is this justifiable considering that philosophy involves evaluation of assumptions and education as meant for the reformation of character of the individual and the state?

Cheryl asked:

How did philosophy change after Socrates lifetime? I see Socrates as more of a religious leader than a philosopher and I wonder how much spiritual leaders were affected by Socrates. There are so many ways that our society reflects some of Socrates views and I wonder if they all stem from Socrates i.e. Be all you can be, Prisoners should be educated not punished, listen to your inner voice

Catherine asked:

Do believe that when the US is engaged in a military conflict, the demands of national security ought to supersede conflicting claims of individual rights?

Vittoria asked:

I would like to know where I can find information on line about The relation of Okra (Soul) and Honam (body): An Akan Conception by Kwame Gyekye. There seems to be very limited information on African Philosophy.

Mujawo asked:

Is there an African philosophy? What is ethics in African point of view?

Kathleen asked:

What does this quote mean? "We are always the same age inside" (Gertrude Stein).

What other quotes or philosophers support Gertrude Stein?

What is 'ageless'?

What is a 'state of mind'?

Lee asked:

What is scepticism? does it have different types? what are they? and what arguments do sceptics use to support their claims? what criticisms can be made of sceptical claims? and what views do empiricists and rationalists have on these claims?

Elisama asked:

Why do we always look for knowledge?

How do we know that it is true? or real?

Why do people always pursue knowledge?

Why do humans want to acquire knowledge and look for answers to mysteries?

Colleen asked:

Why do Stoics consider themselves to be cosmologists?

Stefanie asked:

Eric asked:

Can you please explain what Nietzsche meant when he said "The highest values devalue themselves?"

Nafisa asked:

What is absolutism, relativism, cultural relativism and which approach to ethics, do you think is the most effective, and why?

Andrea asked:

What is the difference between political life and philosophical life?

Kath asked:

I am studying Plato and Machiavelli, and since it is known that Machiavelli did in fact read Plato's works, I am wondering what Machiavelli would have thought of Plato's Allegory of the Cave?

Sakeenah asked:

Does Society's interest in protecting an unborn child justify coercive measures against alcohol or other drugs that could harm the fetus? If so, what form should such measures take?

Beve asked:

These questions are on Lucretius De Rerum Natura:

What is Lucretius' arx axiom?

Does Lucretius believe in objective reality?

Does Lucretius assume that matter is eternal?

Is a moral imperative such as "Thou Shalt not steal" a thing? If it is, then it must come from other things. From what things do we get our moral imperatives in Lucretius' universe?

Why should or must a man discover cause or causes for all things within nature?

How would Lucretius explain such events as the destruction of the World Trade Towers, the Pentagon and the flight 93 that went down in Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001?

What place does divine propositional revelation play in Lucretius' epistemology?

Does Lucretius have to admit the existence of some innate intellectual understanding or valid ways of understanding reality existent in the mind of men prior to any sense of experience?

Narendra asked:

What is soul? Where to find soul? .How to find soul? What is the importance of the soul in life? As per Hindu religion, if soul is immortal then how does it travel after death? Why is science not able to find the soul, and what is the philosophical view?

Abby asked:

How does Heidegger understand Being?

Clair asked:

Can you explain simply Plato's theory about the Form of the Good?

Oma asked:

Discuss the Cartesian concept of "I think therefore I am".

James asked:

In what ways did Mao Zeedong's revolutionary strategy diverge from orthodox marxism's revolutionary strategy?

Melissa asked:

If Antigone is a play that might serve as a warning to the Athenians, what was Sophocles warning them about? How might Antigone serve as a guide for a solution to the eternal questions of the god's rules vs. man's rules or individual vs. community?

Joel asked:

Explain Hobbes' view of reason in his justification of the state.

Rachel asked:

Explain Plato's use of reason in his description of the ideal state.

Cody asked:

What are issues? and how are they a part of philosophy?

Bob and Lupe asked:

What is reality?

Larissa asked:

What is Compatibilism, and how can it be viewed towards different aspects and people?

Josh asked:

According to David Hume, we can never have universal knowledge, only personal knowledge. This is because we receive information in ways unique to ourselves. However, mathematics is received the same by everyone. I'm still a little fuzzy on how 'matters of fact' can be separated from 'relations of ideas' simply because one doesn't attempt to explain existence. Can 2+2=4 ever be received differently for different people?

Emma asked:

On what ground's might Plato's understanding of human reasoning be criticised?

Josh asked:

How is success reached?

What is the purpose of your enemies?

How does someone find the meaning of their existence?

Vishal asked:

Can you tell me who said this phrase:

"The story is our savior, without it we are blind."

Molele asked:

I have been given the following essay question "explain the relationship between charm and truth" in Ion by Plato.

What is it that refers to 'charm' in the dialogue? I am confused.

Hubertus asked:

What is the meaning of happiness?

(1) by biological argument (why can animals and humans be happy, what is "the use of happiness" in biological terms?)

(2) by philosophical argument (what "should" make humans happy — why?)

(3) Is happiness really what we are or should be after — or is this just a misunderstanding?

This question is posed with a view on Aldous Huxley's Brave New World where people are sedated by the "happiness-drug" soma and by soft music and sex. What is wrong with such a concept of happiness — why?

In the light of the foregoing, discuss the old Benthamite/ utilitarian slogan of "the greatest happiness of the greatest number" as a plausible shorthand for the aims of Enlightenment and the French Revolution of 1789 in the long run. This argument still pervades the theory of Rawls in liberal disguise and it guides nearly all discussions of a future society today. What then is this happiness to be achieved in the long run?

Martin asked:

Please give me a brief analysis of john Locke's theory of meaning as found in his Essay Concerning Human Understanding.

Jason asked:

This question comes from Plato The Apology. What, according to Socrates, is the main purpose of oratory? Do you agree? What is the prevailing view today?

Beth asked:

What is Socrates' opinion on human nature? How does that opinion shape his ideas in his teachings of philosophy?

Park asked:

I have a theory of eternal perspective that generally states: from an eternal perspective, there is an equilibrium between happiness and sadness and that meaning can only come temporally and never eternally. (Even if "we" were to exist for eternity) For example, as law of conservation is to matter, the theory of eternal perspective is to happiness. I've written and thought about this a lot but how much has this been written and thought about by philosophers before? How original is this theory?

Ellen asked:

I am interested in writing historical fiction. One story I have been looking at concerns the sculptress, Elisabet Ney and her bust of Schopenhauer. Schopenhauer enthusiasts seem to be jealous of the fact that the bust is in Austin, Texas rather than Germany. Anyhow, the story about when Schopenhauer posed for the bust is very interesting. There may be references to future lives in this conversation, and about the two of them meeting again in a future life. I do not know if this is true or not, or if it is just a story. Anyhow, I am interested in learning more about Schopenhauer's opinions about reincarnation. I know that he studied the Upanishads. Which one of his writings would be most beneficial for me to study?

I am also interested in Schopenhauer's attitudes towards Christianity. I know that he mocked some of the dogmas of the religion, but did he dislike everything about Christianity? What did he say about the spirit? Which one of his writings would have the most information about this? I have heard that he may have been interested in the parables in the New Testament.

Reanna asked:

My question is from a course on History, Power and Authority.

How do the steps Athens took reflect a turn toward democracy?

Danielle asked:

I am doing research for school and these are the questions I have been asked: What is Philosophy? Why do Philosophy? What is Logic and Critical Thinking? What is Aesthetics? What is Epistemology? What is Metaphysics? What is Ethics or Moral Philosophy? Explain one major Philosophical problem, issue or question dealt with by each one of topics.

Sadie asked:

Is homosexuality immoral? why?

Molele asked:

What is true art or the true artist for Socrates in the dialogue Ion by Plato?

Richard asked:

Was Sartre a behaviourist or a dualist?

Chelle asked:

I am having some trouble in understanding the meaning behind Plato's dialogue Ion. Could you please help me to clarify what he is trying to say and how it relates to his other theories of ethics?

Robert asked:

What is reality? How can we decipher reality from non-reality in the world that we live in today?

JP asked:

What can you do after you major in philosophy other than teach or write books? What about with a minor?

Janie asked:

I just finished reading Simon Blackburn's Book Think. I have been pondering over the chapters and trying to find the main points. If there is any web page I can go to that summarizes the chapters it would be great. The examples and arguments are just confusing me.

Jean asked:

I would be grateful for any philosophical comment, point of view or criticism concerning Brian Greene and his book The Elegant Universe.

Jesus asked:

We know that there are many different types of ideologies, and some of them look very similar, and some of them are the opposite, but all of them talk about man, and all that's related to knowledge. How can we trust in any of them, or have one of them as a way of thinking, if they all contradict one other, and how can we know if there is a real and absolute truth?

Anylu asked:

Is there such a thing as re-incarnation?

and Luis asked:

What happens after death?

Denise asked:

Can you identify a space where there is nothing? Because there is nothing in that space.

But the fact that it takes up space, means that there is something, right? So, does nothing really exist? Does it take up space and time? How much?

Narendra asked:

What is joy .pleasure and happiness?

Is happiness the feeling of mind, heart or body?

How to derive permanent happiness from life?

Why do we strive and struggle for happiness?

Ana asked:

We are students of the Preparatoria Tec Campus Eugenio Garza Laguera. My name is Ana Maria and my teammates are Juliana Salazar, Patricia Lozano, Paulina Canto and Anna Salazar. We are taking a philosophy course and we would like to know your opinion about a question that we have:

What is happiness?

Marcela asked:

I'm from Monterrey, Mexico, and I am studying at ITESM high school. We were asked to ask a philosophical question for our class, and this is something that I have always wondered:

Do people really reach happiness? Every one has ideals and goals, and they feel that once that is reached, everything will function. But once the goal is accomplished, something more is missing. Is happiness just a psychological state of mind that pushes us toward accomplishing our objectives, but keeps us searching for that happiness that never seems to turn up?

Sumita asked:

My friend told me that time is the dynamic of matter, so time exists because of the movement of matter, and we can't know and realize that time is moving forward if we don't see the movement of matter. Is this true?

My friend also told me that the space is the place between two material objects, so there is no space if there is only one object in the world. Is this true?

So...What is time? And what is space?

Did time exist before the big bang? Did space exist before the big bang?

Paul asked:

I am interested in the history of concepts of human nature/ being human/ human being. Not only philosophers but also novelists have presented ideas on this matter. Is Fitzgerald's Gatsby a notion of what (some) people "were like" in the 1920s? Dreiser? Agee? To be sure, psychologists, including Wundt as well as Freud, have given us their opinions. How do I approach this impossible task?

Karol asked:

Why is Machiavelli considered the founder of the modern political theory?

Issac asked:

Could other worlds exist within our own? Take for instance Shangri La in the Buddhist faith. Perhaps our concept of reality is limited to just one facet. Is there any philosophical way to reason this idea, or is it more of a theological query? Could you recommend any particular author on this subject?

Marcela asked:

I want to know how we can know that we are not happy if we haven't had a little time of happiness?

Jorge, Mariana, and Criscelda asked:

Who created god? did we create him? If god is always with us as the Bible says, why sometimes do we think he is not? why not believe in an alien?

Susanne asked:

Can you be both a rationalist and a relativist in your approach to psychology?

Akashfi asked:

What is the relation between propositional knowledge, acquaintance knowledge and skill knowledge? are they reducible to each other?

Sliq asked:

How is philosophical anthropology relevant to the ethics of human cloning?

I have been asked to "defend this answer with a sound argument showing the form of your argument in terms of proposition A,B,C and clearly state each proposition. Explain why your argument is valid and why each of its premises is true."

Hardik asked:

What are the issues at stake in grounding morality in reason (Kant) vs. emotions (Scheler)? Who do you think was right, and why?

What does Scheler mean by "ordo amoris"? how does this relate to value-ranks and feeling states?

Alavi asked:

What do you know about Islamic theology and Shi'ite theology?

Hubertus asked:

What do you think are the most urgent problems posed to todays socio-political philosophy? There have been important answers to important questions by Locke, Kant, Rousseau, Marx — to name a few. As Jacques Barzun has it: "Cultural epochs are united by their questions — not by their answers!" So, what are the most important socio-political questions of our time in your opinion?

And then: Whom do you think to be the most stimulating and worthwhile thinkers on those questions — philosophers or otherwise (for instance, theologians or writers or poets)?

Krista asked:

Do you have instructions for building 'Plato's Plight' — The Philosopher's Puzzle?

Tammy asked:

What are the necessary components of moral decision making in our Western system? and What is consequential and non-consequentialist moral theory in your opinion?

Nick and Neha asked:

What is the problem of the One and the Many and how does it manifest itself in Plato's dialogues Ion and Meno?

What is the paradox with which the Meno ends? how can this be solved in terms of Socratic philosophy? How would the art of Ion help or hinder the solution of the paradox?

Kate asked:

In Plato's Gorgias, how does Socrates argue that pleasure is not to be equated with the good?

Patricia asked:

I would like to find out about the life of Socrates

Cat asked:

I am a student at a college in the Caribbean and I would like to know how Hedonists live their lives, their way of living.

What they do? how do they do it?

Kimberly asked:

According to Plato in the Republic, why are we unfit to be "philosopher kings"? or if we are "philosopher kings", according to Plato what are we supposed to do?

Brian asked:

I am currently debating the argument of "Are there propositions?" but am finding it hard to decipher between the guidelines by Fitch and Frege versus the ideas of Pospesel. If you could help me out that would be outstanding. This is a topic I would love to do my senior thesis on next year if only getting over the hump was a little clearer.

Katrena asked:

Explain how today's president (Bush) relates to "Big Brother" in George Orwell's novel 1984. Then use double think to explain how today's president (Bush) isn't president.

Boukouvala asked:

In Spinoza's Ethics, is desire, ontologically, appetitus + conscientia?

Gloria asked:

What are the elements of Descartes' philosophy that eventually lead to the view called subjectivism?

Alan asked:

Habermas' Critical theory distributes knowledge on 3 levels:

Type of human interest — Type of Knowledge — Research Method:

1. Labour or work — Instrumental (causal explanation) — Positivistic sciences

2. Practical or communicative — Practical (understanding)-Interpretative research

3. Emancipatory — Emancipation (reflection) — Critical Theory

Is my representation of his critical theory correct?

Is Habermas a structuralist?

What is the Critical Theory?

Fredrik asked:

How does Ronald Dworkin's theory of law as integrity give a twist to the positivist and natural law debate?

Karen asked:

I have my final exam in Philosophy on Thursday and I am revising Nietzsche and Foucault. although I understand their philosophy I am having trouble linking its relevance to social theory especially Nietzsche's philosophy. If anyone could point me in the right direction I would be very grateful.

Trisha asked:

Explain Spelman's critique of Platonic dualism. What is somatophobia?

Onduko asked:

How can one morally justify voluntary euthanasia?

Nicolas asked:

What are your thoughts and feelings about "the eye is a window"?

What image comes to your mind?

Emma asked:

These questions are in relation to John Mackie's "Evil and Omnipotence" so I'm not sure how much you can help me there, even just general idea's would be great.

How does Mackie query the assumption that second order evils are logically necessary accompaniments of freedom? Does this seem plausible?

What are the premises and conclusions of the "problem of evil"?

Christa asked:

I had an essay marked on Utilitarianism (Does Robert Nozick's 'Experience Machine' thought experiment provide us with a good reason for rejecting Utilitarianism?) and have been accused of assuming a consequentialist framework to morality and also presupposing subjectivism without question. I am unsure as to what this means, please could someone shed any light on the matter?

Sho asked:

What is beauty? Where is it found?

Alexis asked:

Could you please answer a couple of questions for me?

1. What is Plato's proof for the immortality of the soul in the Meno and Phaedo?

2. Could you please briefly discuss the "to know is to remember (the truth)" argument and the Platonic and the modern accounts of the origin of a priori knowledge; the "simplicity and the complexity of the soul, relative to the body" argument; and finally, the modern account of the mind (soul) — body (matter) problem.

Ian asked:

Many years ago a little paperback. The Way Of Myth — Talking with Joseph Campbell Fraser Boa, (1994 Shambhala Pocket Classics, ISBN 1-57062-042-3) started my interest in philosophy. But I've noticed that Joseph Campbell (who died in 1987) was never accepted into the mainstream philosophical family. Yet to me he undoubtedly had a philosopher's wisdom. Have you heard of Campbell and, if so, do you have a view as to why he is not thought of as a 'true' philosopher?

Jessica asked:

In relation to the 'theory of the forms' and the 'soul', who out of Plato and Aristotle is the more persuasive of the two views? Why?

Leah asked:

What is Metaphysical Materialism and its criticism?

Paulius asked:

I am looking of critics on media. What authors would you suggest?

Tonyubah asked:

How does Machiavelli's idea regarding human nature influence his political writing?

I was hoping you could help me understand Lao Tzu's metaphysics. In particular the taoist concept of Tao. Why can the Absolute have no name? And how, or in what sense is the namable world of the relative Tao a construct of sense experience? I don't understand. Is the Tao related to awareness? And what is the difference between the Tao as the constant and the tao as the changeable? Is Tao the origin of things? If so, how!? I'm lost and would really appreciate if someone could help me with these questions.

Joel asked:

I have one question about theory of knowledge and I need you help in it, my question is: do people act their way into feeling or feel their way action?

Please answer me as soon as possible in a very accurate, precise and detailed way. Thanks.

Simon asked:

Why do some people say that Durkheim is not a Positivist?

Marie asked:

I would like to know how to answer the following question:

'Why does Aristotle say that being has more than one sense but is not completely equivocal?'

Maybe I could get some guidelines re the above on how to go about tackling it. I feel very confused!

Jay asked:

Bartky, Sherwin, and Mills all offer arguments for why our current social, moral, and economic structure is unjust. Articulate some specific claims these authors make that illustrate their point.

What features of our current structure are problematic? From where did these features arise? Why are these features important in ways that other features are not?

Peter asked:

I'm trying to critically evaluate Socrates' attack on democracy inRepublic Book VIII, by applying it to American democracy and imagining possible defenses of democracy. I'm trying to consider at least Socrates' criticisms of majority rule, equality, and liberty.

Alex asked:

How are Hume and Kant connected in their works?

How is Nietzsche's philosophy a critique of the tradition of Metaphysics?

How is Hume a critique of Spinoza in the question of God as a cause?

Jess asked:

I am doing an A-level timed course work and would like some all round pointers on how to answer the following question, and what it is crucial that I need to put in:

"Discuss Mill's contribution in On Liberty to philosophical considerations of freedom. "

Heidi asked:

I just need a clearer definition of Prudential Hedonism. The essay that I am trying to write is "Can Prudential Hedonism be defended against Nozick's experience machine?" I understand how the experience machine works but am struggling with the hedonism part of the question.

Fraz asked:

What is good and bad?

Rebecca asked:

Could someone please outline the main problems with Horwich's minimalism about truth?

Malika asked:

If one asks you to give your opinions about Martin Heidegger works on the following topics:

1) The Being of the entities encountered in the environment

2) The spatiality of being in the world

what would you say?

Del asked:

Compare the method by which Kant arrives at his idea of the categorical imperative with the way Mill develops his utilitarian principle of justice.

Bassel asked:

The Israeli—Palestinian dispute waging in the Middle East has become a great moral dilemma. How do you think Aristotle's moral theory would apply?

Natalie asked:

I am a freelance journalist of Western Australia, currently writing an article on 'the pursuit of joy'.

Could you please provide me with information of "What constitutes happiness"? Jazzy ways of discovering more potentiality. Also if we detour from reality, how does this inhibit living, loving and learning?

I would greatly appreciate any fresh/ interesting information.

Octavia asked:

Please philosophically define — Skepticisim, Materialism, Idealism and Dualism and what if any relationship do they have to one another.

Allex asked:

I have 2 questions actually,

First, how would you apply the different sects of utilitarianism (act and rule) to the story of the boy and the king in The Brother's Karamazov?

Second, if you know of the movie 'Saving Private Ryan', where is the application of rule utilitarianism? I understand that what act would not condone was for the loss of many to one. I guess I just don't understand applications of rule. Explain?

Joe asked:

Which philosopher said, "You see what you know, you find what you look for"?

Bev asked:

What is unitary ontology? Specify the various contexts in which answers may be given and offer a short explanation of the concept in each context.

Dustin asked:

I am having trouble answering the question "In what ways, if any, is John Rawls' theory of justice and improvement over that of Aristotle?" Wondering if anyone has any suggestions.

Sapna asked:

What is 'libertarian extension' in environmental ethics? And how can its relation with tourism be established?

Roxie asked:

I understand that both Mill and Hobbes wanted to provide a government that advanced the interests of the people, but they still differed in many ways. how do their own views on liberty and equality connect to the political structures they wrote about in their books?

Paul asked:

I have recently been set a question in my Philosophy of Leisure class of "How do Humans relate to Reality?" I have been looking at ways of attacking the question but as of yet have found no real starting point! Can you suggest any philosophers or any starting point that could be useful?

Gurkirat asked:

Critically assess the contributions Thomas Aquinas made to the doctrine of natural law.

Fran asked:

Hello, I took a philosophy class while in college and I vaguely remember a story (or allegory?) my professor told us about a group of animals (or butterflies) that I thought were called the Ephemera that lived in a cave. They lived their entire lives in one day, so their entire range of experience was contained in that one day. So they watched the sun rise and set across the mouth of the cave. And that's all I remember, but I think this story would be perfect for a class I'm teaching on point of view in my high school English class if I could only locate it. Any ideas?

Melissa asked:

I am in an Introduction to Philosophy class...the question I have is, Is there moral knowledge and how do we know?

Heidi asked:

I am seeking for Plato's quote about deaf issues, for researching deaf history. I know about Philosopher Aristotle's quote (355 B.C. Aristotle says those "born deaf become senseless and incapable of reason.") Both of these philosophers have different perspectives. I wonder you have information about Plato's quote? If so, tell me what book and author so I could find it.

Bill asked:

Are there any successful arguments against Sartre's ontological basis of freedom? Does the intentionality of consciousness entail freedom?

Also, how important has Sartre been for ethics in general?