Metaphysics

What this page covers

This unit sits in the Knowledge, Mind and Reality strand of Philosophy. Most of what it lists is mind maps, with a smaller set of flashcard decks, a few quizzes, a note and a flowchart. Together they cover the big questions of metaphysics: what reality is, what makes something the same thing over time, and whether our choices are free.

Where to start

Begin with the basics. The mind map titled Metaphysics defines the study of the fundamental nature of reality. Another one explains the Greek roots of the word, meta meaning beyond or after, and physika. The INTRO TO METAPHYSICS flashcard deck then moves through forms versus particulars, the one over many argument and mind dependence.

Core topics to follow

• Free will and determinism: several maps cover causation, predictability, fatalism, religious predestination and libertarianism. One focuses on philosophers and quotes, including John Locke.
• Aristotle: maps look at his four causes and his interest in why things exist as they do. A deck compares Locke and Aristotle on natural kinds.
• Mind and body: the Soul, Mind and Body map sets out Descartes on dualism and a reply from Churchland.
• Identity and reality: look for the SHIP OF THESEUS and Personal Identity decks, plus the many maps titled What is real.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a map first, then close it and try to rebuild its branches from memory. After that, take the Particulars & Universals quiz to see whether the ideas have held. Flashcards suit short definitions, such as the ones in METAPHYSICS DEFINITIONS. If a quiz shows a gap, go back to the matching map and read that branch again.

Many maps overlap on the same topics, so compare two or three. Different contributors stress different points, and spotting those differences is useful practice for writing your own summary.

Next step

Pick one topic, such as determinism, and work through a map, a deck and a quiz in turn. Then try making a map of your own.