philosophy!

[ondemania]

In my class we need to give a discussion on metaphysics - Metaphysics is the study of 'being' and the study of 'the divine', why do questions about one of these usually involve the other?
- Consider why it is that when philosophers investigate questions of what something 'is', it usually involves a discussion of god, or some divine entity.
i am focusing on looking at this idea in relation to modern day religions and gods. any ideas or opinions would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

[mibn2cweus]

Consider the possibility that obfuscations such as �god�, the �divine� and other mystically derived terms may be attributable to a lack of understanding of what constitutes knowledge and how we validate what we know, (epistemology). You might investigate whether there is a relationship between mystical ideas and terms used as precursors of knowledge, such as randomness which is how we describe a sequence of events prior to our understanding of the causal chain leading up to the event, or for another example spontaneity referring to events for which we have not yet determined their cause. Is mysticism an attempt to obtain knowledge prior to an investigation of a natural explanation?

The only difference I can see in modern day religion is the increasing need to quickly attribute their mystical claims to the proliferation of new knowledge which is coming to light at an exponential rate, perhaps due to vastly improved communication between rational minds, as well as, the integration of knowledge taking place as we fit the pieces of our improved understanding together.

Wish I had more time for this but if this raises new questions for you perhaps I can then contribute more precisely to what it is that you are after. Great questions!

[jake-the-peg]

Metaphysics is concerned with the concepts of the existance of things and therefore of our own existance.

When you consider something's existance you have to ask about it's creation and destruction.

The subject therefore runs head-long into religion. Not only does it involve considerations of the creation and destruction of the universe but of ourselves. So if you happen to believe in gods (modern or ancient), immortal souls or any of that stuff you're going to want to roll up your sleeves and wade into this one!

[jimmer]

Metaphysics is arguably a philosophical framework for discussing the things not related to the physical world. this puts it in sharp contrast to materialism which excludes reference to the supernatural. Since metaphysics is concerned with non-physical properties it is not falsifiable and so it is really implies a belief about something which is where religion comes in. For this reason theology is a traditional branch of metaphysics along with existance and natural science.

�It�s so hard to believe in anything anymore, y�know? Like religion, you can�t really take it seriously because it seems so mythological and seems so arbitrary. On the other hand science is just pure impericism and by virtue of its method, it excludes metaphysics. And I guess I wouldn�t believe in anything if it weren�t for my Lucky Astrology Mood Watch.�
� Steve Martin