Metaphysics in the Ancient Divisions of Philosophy
by Tatiana Velitchkov © 2009

The study of principles regarding reality relative to scientific principles otherwise known as metaphysics was began in ancient ages though by then it was known by different terminology. The term ‘meta’ was coined later from the Greek word meaning ‘beyond’. As such metaphysics seeks a more in-depth explanation to the state of the world than can be explained through mundane scientific principles. Ancient metaphysicians such as Aristotle and Thales never even had the terminology with which to refer to this branch of science and as is the case for Aristotle he referred to it as ‘first philosophy’.

Philosophy in ancient times was founded on explaining and discovering the dynamism of life’s processes. There arose radical philosophers whose views and inputs have shaped the course of philosophy for ages. After effort had been made to explain and discover scientific philosophies and principles the scholars sought to solve the puzzle of what exists after these principles. Philosophy through its branches of epistemology concentrate on the overall pursuit of knowledge as far as its nature and origin is concerned. Metaphysics developed from the thirst of ancient scholars in finding out further explanations to theories of human behavior and existence than those provided by sciences.

Reality forms the basis of metaphysics as it seeks to direct thought towards the existing matters rather than possibilities and theories. To this end metaphysics focuses on elementary factors such as water-of which leading Greek philosopher, Thales said is the basis for all life on earth – to paraphrase. Metaphysics in its endeavor to put its point across has stepped on a few toes such as religion. The premise of philosophy pursuit of knowledge – allows it a wide margin of inquiry – from which observations and ideas are formed. These ideas haven’t always been in line with the principles of religion hence conflict. Left for a long time the ideas have influenced behavioral traits that are considered contrary to popular religious beliefs like the question of polytheism.

Ancient divisions of metaphysics studied ontology (the study of existence and being), natural theology (involving spiritual issues) and universal science from which all questions find base. Ancient philosophy cannot in any way be overlooked because of it being – ancient. The ancient philosophies embraced a wider view of metaphysics including the sciences, language, mind and perception philosophy and religion – each of which modern philosophy now categorizes into distinct branches of philosophy. Aristotle to whose works can be credited the origin of metaphysics was himself a critical thinker and astute philosopher who was able to interrogate issues and derive significant conclusions from them. By, and large such practices have formed the basis of philosophy.

Feel free to watch the video clip by Ralph McInerny, Ph.D on the Metaphysics of Aristotle