Free essays on Philosophy are essays that are readily available on the internet for anyone to download and use. These essays cover a wide range of philosophical topics such as ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, and many others. They are usually written by students, professors, or scholars who have a deep understanding of philosophical concepts and are willing to share their knowledge with others. Free essays on philosophy serve as an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating philosophical discipline.
Nihilism: Embracing the Void or Confronting Existential Challenges?
Nihilism, a philosophical philosophy that emerged during the 19th century, presents a challenge to conventional ideas and values by positing the absence of intrinsic meaning or purpose in existence. The name "nihilism" originates from the Latin phrase "nihil," which translates to "nothing." Nihilists espouse a philosophical stance that entails the rejection of the existence of objective moral truths, religious teachings, and social standards. Consequently, they often endorse a skeptical and cynical perspective towards life. The philosophical idea of nihilism has…...
Philosophy
The Enigmatic Journey of Chris McCandless: A Modern-Day Adventurer
Chris McCandless, a young and idealistic adventurer, captured the world's attention with his tragic and controversial journey into the Alaskan wilderness. His story, immortalized in Jon Krakauer's book "Into the Wild" and later adapted into a movie, has sparked debates and discussions about the pursuit of dreams, the meaning of freedom, and the consequences of living on the edge. In 1990, at the age of 22, Chris McCandless embarked on an extraordinary journey that would ultimately lead to his untimely…...
Human Nature
IB Philosophy: Proof and Logic
IB Philosophy: Proof and Logic The topic ‘Proof and Logic’ deals with how an argument is formulated and the lines of reasoning that can lead to its success. The basic definitions that can be found in all logical arguments are as such: A premise is a statement that supports what you argue. A deductive argument claims that if all premises are true, the conclusion that is inferred from the premises is also truthful. A logical fallacy refers to an invalid…...
Philosophy
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IB Philosophy Core Theme: The Human Condition
IB Philosophy Core Theme: The Human Condition The issue of the human condition encompasses the unique aspects of our personality, our selves and our characteristics that differentiates ourselves from other creatures. This may include issues such as the purpose of our lives, individuality and human society. Karl Marx > Karl Marx: Stated that ‘alienation’ is neither metaphysical nor religious, but really social and economic – due to the events in the early 1990s, when the communist countries of the Eastern…...
Philosophy
IB Philosophy: Utilitarianism
IB Philosophy: Utilitarianism Utilitarianism Utilitarianism is a normative ethical theory first proposed by J. Bentham, then later modified by J.S. Mill. The focus of Utilitarianism is to maximise the happiness of the majority. Bentham’s Quantitative Utilitarianism Bentham’s utilitarianism is a purely QUANTITATIVE version of utilitarianism.Has 3 parts: A commitment to Hedonism (search for pleasure) – “pleasure and pain are our sovereign masters” Principle of Utility (usefulness) – Greatest happiness principle. We should act to maximise pleasure for everyone. Not a…...
Philosophy
Laertes Unveiled: A Compelling Character Study from Shakespeare’s Hamlet
In the labyrinth of emotion and intrigue that is Shakespeare's Hamlet, each character plays a pivotal role in propelling the narrative. Among the cast, Laertes, the son of Polonius and the brother of Ophelia, stands out as a particularly captivating character. This post delves into the character of Laertes, exploring his role, motives, and impact within the tragic play.Laertes, much like Hamlet, is a young prince caught in a whirlpool of family drama and political intrigue. However, the similarities don't…...
Philosophy
Soaring High: An Exploration of Idealism
In a world that often compels us to be ruthlessly practical, the concept of idealism can seem like an antiquated notion, a relic of simpler, more naïve times. However, to dismiss idealism as mere quixotic fantasy would be a grave oversimplification. Let's delve into the fascinating world of idealism, exploring what it means to be idealistic and why this perspective continues to hold significance in our complex world.In its most basic form, to be idealistic means to believe in the…...
Philosophy
Boundaries of Morality: Unveiling the Layers of Euthyphro’s Dilemma
Within the pages of Plato's timeless dialogue, the Euthyphro, a captivating exploration of moral philosophy unfolds. In this intricate discourse, Socrates and Euthyphro embark on a journey that forces us to confront the complexities of ethics, divine authority, and the nature of piety. Through an in-depth analysis of this thought-provoking dialogue, we navigate the boundaries of morality, unraveling the layers of Euthyphro's dilemma and contemplating its profound implications for human understanding. The Quest for Definition: Unraveling Piety At the heart…...
Philosophy
Waxing Philosophical: Exploring the Intricacies of Deep Thought
In the realm of introspection and intellectual inquiry, to "wax philosophical" is to immerse oneself in the ethereal melodies of contemplation. This unique phrase encapsulates the process of harmonizing with profound ideas, exploring the enigmatic dimensions of existence, and nurturing a deep connection with the mysteries of life. In this exploration, we embark on a harmonious journey, uncovering the nuanced layers of "waxing philosophical" and embracing the transformative power it holds. The Rhythms of Reflection: Embracing Curiosity and Wonder At…...
Philosophy
Decoding the Logic: Unraveling the Power of Categorical Syllogism
Categorical syllogism, a fundamental concept in logic and reasoning, serves as a powerful tool for constructing valid arguments and exploring the intricate relationships between propositions. In this exploration, we delve into the depths of categorical syllogism, unlocking its potential to unveil the hidden structure of logical reasoning. Join us on this journey as we unravel the intricacies of categorical syllogism, shedding light on its components, rules, and practical applications. Foundations of Categorical Syllogism: Unveiling the Propositions At the core of…...
Philosophy
The NASW Code of Ethics: Guiding the Path to Ethical Social Work Practice
Hey y’all, let’s take a minute to dive into the fabulous world of the NASW Code of Ethics. For those who might be scratching their heads right now, NASW stands for the National Association of Social Workers. You know, those amazing folks who are like guardian angels in society, ensuring that vulnerable populations have a voice and access to necessary resources. Now, buckle up because this is not just another dry list of rules – it's the very essence and…...
Ethics
The Many Facets of Vengeance: Understanding Retributive Justice
In our daily lives, the concept of vengeance often features prominently in stories, whether they're told through literature, film, or even the anecdotes we share with one another. Vengeance, as an idea, grips our attention, sometimes evoking strong emotions and moral questions. But what exactly is vengeance? How can we define it, and more importantly, understand it?At its core, vengeance, also known as retribution, refers to the act of retaliating against a perceived wrong by inflicting harm equivalent to the…...
Ethics
Words of Wisdom: Gleaning Insights from King Solomon’s Teachings
Few figures from antiquity continue to captivate contemporary minds as King Solomon does. Known for his discerning intellect and sage wisdom, Solomon, the storied king of Israel, has left a lasting legacy through his words. These are not just relics of a bygone era, but timeless nuggets of wisdom that continue to resonate today.Widely considered one of the wisest individuals in human history, King Solomon's insights are primarily found in the Biblical books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.…...
Ethics
Unearthing the Gem: Hidden Intellectualism
In the bustling landscape of academia and modern society, there's often a singular notion of what it means to be intellectual. However, such a perspective, which is often centered around traditional education and scholarly pursuits, only scratches the surface of the wealth of intellect that resides within human beings. This post aims to unravel the tapestry of ‘hidden intellectualism,’ an underappreciated facet of human intelligence that deserves a spotlight.Historically, the term 'intellectual' has been synonymous with scholarly pursuits, academic acumen,…...
Philosophy
Precious Knowledge: The Power and Essence of Education
In the whirlwind of daily life, we often lose sight of the inherent value and the preciousness of knowledge. Education and knowledge are not merely a means to an end; they embody a spectrum of elements that shape our lives, communities, and, in turn, the world. This post seeks to delve into the very essence of knowledge, the sacredness encapsulated within it, and how it transcends the mundane to become an enduring treasure.Knowledge is akin to a crucible in which…...
Philosophy
Compliments Only DC: A Modern Utopia of Positivity and Community
In an era where social media often appears to be an abyss of negativity, Compliments Only DC emerges as a breath of fresh air in the online landscape. With its roots in Washington, D.C., this inspiring movement goes against the grain, fostering a community of positivity, support, and genuine goodwill. Let's dive into the empowering world of Compliments Only DC and explore how it's revolutionizing social interactions and reinforcing the human spirit.Compliments Only DC started as a humble endeavor on…...
Philosophy
C.W. Williams: An Unmatched Influence in the Sphere of Success
C.W. Williams is a personality that captures the essence of accomplishment, embodying resilience and unyielding determination. A less traveled road, that of fervent dedication and a relentless pursuit of greatness, has been the enduring narrative of his life. With a mind that ceaselessly fosters innovation and a heart that beats with an insatiable quest for knowledge, Williams is a beacon for many who aspire to reach the zenith of their potentials.C.W. Williams didn't arrive at success overnight. His story is…...
Philosophy
Rainsford: A Study in Survival and Morality in ‘The Most Dangerous Game’
"The Most Dangerous Game," a classic short story by Richard Connell, is a gripping tale of suspense, survival, and moral ambiguity. At the heart of the story is the character of Sanger Rainsford, a celebrated big-game hunter whose unexpected journey of survival becomes a profound exploration of his character, principles, and understanding of what it means to be the hunted rather than the hunter.When we first encounter Rainsford, he stands as a staunch advocate for hunting, justifying it as a…...
Philosophy
Delving into Heritage: The Central Theme of Alice Walker’s ‘Everyday Use’
Alice Walker's renowned short story, "Everyday Use," delves deep into the nuances of cultural identity, heritage, and the stark contrast between superficial and profound understanding of one's lineage. This post will explore these thematic elements, revealing how they shape the narrative and influence the characters' interactions.The story revolves around a black mother and her two daughters, Maggie and Dee. Both daughters view their heritage and identity from two contrasting perspectives, a dichotomy that forms the story's crux. Walker uses these…...
Philosophy
The Illusion of Time: Unraveling the Primary Theme of ‘An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge’
"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," penned by Ambrose Bierce, is a captivating short story noted for its unexpected plot twist and profound exploration of time and reality. The story presents the fleeting final moments of Peyton Farquhar, a Southern planter about to be hanged by Union soldiers during the American Civil War. Although it delves into a range of themes, the primary one that resonates throughout the narrative is the malleable and illusory nature of time.The story’s portrayal of…...
Philosophy
Navigating the Abyss: The Concept of Pure Evil in Humanity’s Ranks
In the labyrinth of human nature, there exist numerous shades of character. At one extreme, we encounter admirable virtues - kindness, generosity, and selflessness, casting a bright light in our shared social existence. However, at the opposite end, shrouded in darkness, lies the realm of what we term as "evil" – the deliberate infliction of harm, suffering, or destruction. The notion of pure evil, though, stands out as a stark and complex anomaly. Is it possible that a human being,…...
Philosophy
What Theme Is Best Revealed by This Conflict: Unveiling the Dominant Theme
What Theme Is Best Revealed by This Conflict: Unveiling the Dominant Theme Introduction: In literature and films, conflicts serve as powerful tools for revealing deeper themes and shedding light on the intricate complexities of human existence. When examining a conflict within a narrative, it becomes essential to decipher the underlying themes it uncovers. This essay aims to explore the notion of conflict as a conduit for theme exploration and discern what theme is best revealed by the conflicts in storytelling.…...
Philosophy
Journey Through Shadows: An Odyssey along The Devil’s Highway
In the sun-scorched deserts of the American Southwest, there exists a path etched not only in the earth but in the annals of human struggle. This path, known with a shudder as The Devil's Highway, stretches through the harsh terrain of the Sonoran Desert, serving as a conduit for countless souls seeking refuge and dreams across the United States border. Today, dear reader, we shall tread upon this path not with our feet but with our hearts, as we unfurl…...
Philosophy
A Timeless Address: Unraveling the Tapestry of the Gettysburg Address
In the annals of American history, there lies a treasure trove of speeches that have molded, defined, and illuminated the nation's journey through time. Yet among this illustrious congregation, there is one that stands like a lighthouse, its words casting beams across centuries. This, dear reader, is none other than Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. In this exploration, we shall unfurl the rich tapestry of this iconic speech, taking a closer look at its fabric woven in eloquence, ideals, and eternal…...
Philosophy
The Concept of White Privilege in the Arguments of John Stewart and Bill O’Reilly
One of the great pursuits of contemporary society is racial equality; this idea, despite its feel-good connotation, is actually a lie. There is no such thing as racial equality; by separating people into races, one is consciously creating groups of people that are separate, but unequal. This societal paradox reveals that contemporary society, as a whole, tremendously mishandles race. This is especially true when addressing the concept of "white privilege." White privilege suggests that white people are inherently more likely…...
PhilosophySocial IssuesWhite Privilege
A View on the Personality Issues and the Personality Concept
The concept of personality is widely studied in psychology, especially since it constitutes a unique aspect of every person. Matthews and Corr (2009) define personality as the collection of habitual behaviors, emotional patterns, and cognitions that develop from environmental and biological factors. One of the best approaches for defining an individual's personality is using the five-factor model, which comprises of extroversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, openness to experience, conscientiousness (McCrae & Oliver, 1992). The aspect of extroversion describes how individuals interact with…...
Personality TheoriesPhilosophyPsychology
The Historical Factors Responsible for the Chinese Empire’s Consolidation
The division in the lands of China came by when the Zhou dynasty lost control of its vassals in the 8th century. The Sui Dynasty in China managed to unite the vast Chinese lands in an empire that had experienced four years of division and internal wars that were bloody. The Sui Empire was successful in restoring stability and prosperity in the country; hence restoring the vast lands from complex classical society. The consolidation in China was as a result…...
ConfucianismCultureHistory Of China
American Themes Phillis Wheatley in James Fenimore Cooper’s Pioneers and Its Connection to the Works of Other Writers
The American themes in Cooper's writing have both to do with the country itself, and some core ideas established by writers such as Benjamin Franklin. I believe the main theme of Pioneers to be that America arose quickly because of hard work. Cooper writes mostly about how America was previously, and at the time of writing, largely untamed wilderness; Cooper wrote, "only forty years have passed since this whole territory was a wilderness”. It was because of dedication and perseverance…...
CultureEthicsPhillis WheatleyWilderness
A Reflection on A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah
In A Long Way Gone, Ishmael Beah narrates his own personal account of enduring the pain and anguish of living through man’s most virulent habit. wan Living as a peaceful child in a belligerent world, Ishmael's life of poverty did not affect his affection for American music and aspiration to be in a hip-hop group. Ignorant of the civil turmoil occurring in Central Africa, Ishmael was left unguarded against what would be the most unbearable perils and trials of his…...
A Long Way GoneEthicsPsychologySocial Psychology
Dark Storylines in Young Goodman Brown by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Nathaniel Hawthorne presents many dark themes in his short stories and novels In his work “Young Goodman Brown" -- dark spirits, visions, imagery, afterlife, and character names are utilized to support the story’s theme Nathaniel Hawthorne contradicts the names of characters in the tale, Without the use of these names, the chain of events would not be as suspenseful and influential, Hawthorne uses names, such as Faith, to connect belief in God to Goodman Brown, If this allegory were not…...
CulturePhilosophyReligionYoung Goodman Brown
The Theme of Naturalism in The Open Boat by Stephen Crane
In Stephen Crane‘s short story The Open Boat, the crew of a tragically small dinghy attempt to maintain their humanity and assert the significance of their existence as they are subjected to the cruel indifference of the sea that threatens their lives Crane’s poem above, titled A Man Said to the Universe, expresses the very human fear that nature and fate have no regard for human life, a concept that Crane presents likewise in his short story through the use…...
EmpathyMindPhilosophyThe Open Boat
A Comparison of Song of Myself by Walt Whitman and The Open Boat by Stephen Crane
One of the most common ideas explored in literature is man‘s connection to the universe. Both Walt Whitman’s Song ofMyseIfand Stephen Crane’s The Open Boat examine how man is connected to nature and the universe, but they take different stances on this subject. While Song of Myself is largely concerned with the idea that all people have some sort of deep connection to the universe, The Open Boat expresses the opposite opinion; The Open Boat is about man‘s insignificance in…...
CulturePhilosophyPsychologyThe Open Boat
The Personal Experiences of Stephen Crane in the Book, The Open Boat
The Open Boat is a very raw and vivid story based on Stephen Crane’s personal experience of which is believed to be very similar. Perhaps this is why it is written so well, because this is something from his heart, something that he knows first-hand One of the labels that coins this work is the term naturalism; and with good reason as naturalism is used to describe an accurate depiction of reality Most believe that the Open Boat is just…...
ExperiencePhilosophyPsychologyThe Open Boat
Forces Beyond Our Control: Comparing and Contrasting “The Lottery” and “The Open Boat”
For most humans there is always a struggle about one'5 personal fate and their own mortality; especially with extremely random circumstances, camaraderie between individual participants experiencing the same thing, and the human quality of trying to understand a reason why things happen. In The Open Boat by Stephen Crane and Shirley Jackson's The Lottery, the reader can see each character individually and collectively struggle with their mortality and the concept of fate. Although The Open Boat character’s fate has mostly…...
DestinyThe LotteryThe Open BoatThought
The Character of Abner in the Short Story “Barn Burning”
Have you ever read a story with a character who is just so obviously flat and see through, there is no other way the character can possibly be round? This is not one of those cases, which might be odd. Abner from the short story Barn Burning, no doubt is hard-headed, angry, and very unmannered... People may think. But what if really he isn't anything at all what is first thought of him. Abner just really wants his family to…...
Barn BurningLiteracyPhilosophy
An Analysis of Sarty in Barn Burning by William Faulkner
William Faulkner's "Barn Burning" is a short story whose main character is an uneducated boy who can't read named Sarty. The opening paragraph of the work provides us with an insight into the at first seemingly uncomplicated consciousness of Sarty, but through the use of signs via the food that Sarty sees, we come to understand the true complexity of Sarty's consciousness as we realize that the hunger he has for the sealed food in the store symbolizes the same…...
Barn BurningPhilosophySymbol
An Analysis of My Antonia by Willa Cather
My Ántonia, by Willa Cather, illustrates pioneer life narrated through the eyes of Jim Burden. Throughout the novel he continually places Ántonia, his dearest childhood companion, at the center of his prospective memory. A combination of Ántonia's company with majestic descriptions of the Nebraska prairie forms the basis of Jim's nostalgic recollection that comprises My Ántonia. Just as history tends to repeat itself, certain patterns also emerge in Jim's memory, events parallel to one another that define his experience and…...
My AntoniaPhilosophyPsychology
The House on Mango Street and Esperanza’s Experiences With Gender Inequality
To many, their first sex experience was the fulfillment of lust, satisfaction, and pleasure, but to some, it was pain, deprive of innocence and inequality. In "The House on Mango Street," by Sandra Cisneros, Esperanza grows up in a street where men are the takers and women are providers, this place is full of inequality and discrimination of women. When Esperanza goes to the Carnival, she experiences rape, but the rapist did not experience the punishment of justice. The rape…...
EthicsPhilosophyThe House On Mango Street
The Tragic Time of the 1960’s in Tim O’Brien’s “The Things They Carried”
The short story "On The Rainy River" is a great example which represents a tuff time in 1968. This time was where many men were drafted into war with the mentality that both the men and the society were forced to be afraid to show fear or emotion. It made them all feel ashamed of being "softer", which then forces them to sexist ideals towards the level of women. Tom O'Brien, a 21-year-old man who graduated from Macalester College in…...
PhilosophyPsychologyThe Things They Carried
Analyzing Soldiers’ Personal Belongings in “The Things They Carried”
"The Things They Carried” is a touching story about soldiers and the items that they deem important enough to carry with them throughout the war. Tim O'Brien explores the effects of how personal items give soldiers hope and security. The readers experience this sense of hope, and security when the main character Lieutenant Jimmy Cross relies on letters and pictures during his time in the war. Cross often spends his days fanaticizing about a college aged girl named Martha instead…...
PhilosophyPsychologyThe Things They Carried
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