Philosophy vs. Metaphysics — What's the Difference?

The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.

A branch of philosophy that explores the fundamental nature of reality.

Encompasses various branches like ethics, logic, and metaphysics.

Seeks to determine what types of things actually exist.

Involves rational argument, critical discussion, and systematic presentation of ideas.

Investigates principles of being, time, and space beyond physical science.

Applies theoretical frameworks to practical and existential questions.

Deals with questions of possibility, existence, and the nature of objects.

Encourages deep questioning about the meaning of life and human interaction.

Philosophical analysis of first principles and their implications.

Philosophy (from Greek: φιλοσοφία, philosophia, 'love of wisdom') is the study of general and fundamental questions, such as those about existence, reason, knowledge, values, mind, and language. Such questions are often posed as problems to be studied or resolved.

Metaphysics is the branch of philosophy that studies the first principles of being, identity and change, space and time, causality, necessity and possibility. It includes questions about the nature of consciousness and the relationship between mind and matter.

The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline.

(used with a sing. verb) Philosophy The branch of philosophy that examines the nature of reality, including the relationship between mind and matter, substance and attribute, possibility and actuality.

A theory or attitude that acts as a guiding principle for behaviour

(used with a pl. verb) The theoretical or first principles of a particular discipline

The study of the nature, causes, or principles of reality, knowledge, or values, based on logical reasoning.

(used with a sing. verb) A priori speculation upon questions that are unanswerable to scientific observation, analysis, or experiment.

A system of thought based on or involving such study

(used with a sing. verb) Excessively subtle or recondite reasoning.

The study of the theoretical underpinnings of a particular field or discipline

The branch of philosophy which studies fundamental principles intended to describe or explain all that is, and which are not themselves explained by anything more fundamental; the study of first principles; the study of being insofar as it is being (Latin: ens in quantum ens).

An underlying theory or set of ideas relating to a particular field of activity or to life as a whole

The view or theory of a particular philosopher or school of thinkers concerning the first principles which describe or explain all that is.

The love of wisdom.

The metalogic of physics; the logical framework of physics.

(uncountable) An academic discipline that seeks truth through reasoning rather than empiricism.

Any fundamental principles or rules.

(countable) A comprehensive system of belief.

(uncountable) The study of a supersensual realm or of phenomena which transcend the physical world.

(countable) A view or outlook regarding fundamental principles underlying some domain.

Displeasingly abstruse, complex material on any subject.

(countable) A general principle (usually moral).

Plural of metaphysic

(archaic) A broader branch of (non-applied) science.

The science of real as distinguished from phenomenal being; ontology; also, the science of being, with reference to its abstract and universal conditions, as distinguished from the science of determined or concrete being; the science of the conceptions and relations which are necessarily implied as true of every kind of being; philosophy in general; first principles, or the science of first principles.

A calm and thoughtful demeanor; calmness of temper.

The scientific knowledge of mental phenomena; mental philosophy; psychology.

Synonym of small pica.

The philosophical study of being and knowing

To philosophize.

Literally, the love of, inducing the search after, wisdom; in actual usage, the knowledge of phenomena as explained by, and resolved into, causes and reasons, powers and laws.

A particular philosophical system or theory; the hypothesis by which particular phenomena are explained.

Practical wisdom; calmness of temper and judgment; equanimity; fortitude; stoicism; as, to meet misfortune with philosophy.

Reasoning; argumentation.

The course of sciences read in the schools.

A treatise on philosophy.

A belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school

The rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics

Any personal belief about how to live or how to deal with a situation;

Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.

Metaphysics is a branch of philosophy that studies the core concepts of existence, reality, and the nature of objects and their properties.

Metaphysics focuses on the theoretical aspects of reality and existence, often dealing with abstract concepts that are not covered by other philosophical disciplines like ethics or logic.

Philosophy encourages critical thinking, problem solving, and rational debate, which are essential for personal development and societal progress.

Ethics and metaphysics are related in that ethical theories often rest on metaphysical assumptions about human nature and the universe.

While metaphysical discussions are typically more theoretical, they can influence views on consciousness, free will, and the nature of truth, which have practical implications.

Metaphysics has historically influenced the development of scientific concepts such as space, time, and causality.

Metaphysical questions often involve "What is existence?", "What is the nature of objects?", and "Do abstract concepts exist?"

Philosophy impacts everyday life by improving decision-making and enhancing understanding of complex moral and existential issues.

Major philosophical questions include "What is the best way to live?", "What is reality?", and "What do we know?"

Studying philosophy develops analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and the ability to argue effectively and coherently.

Metaphysics remains relevant as it continuously challenges and refines our understanding of the universe and our place within it.

A metaphysical study is significant if it provides deep insights into the fundamental aspects of reality that challenge or refine existing beliefs.

Metaphysics interacts with psychology, physics, and theology, influencing and being influenced by the theories in these fields.

A sound philosophical argument is logically consistent, well-supported by evidence or reasoning, and effectively communicates its points.