形上學的目的在於理解實在的結構: 了解哪種實體存在, 它們的基本性質, 以及它們之間的關係。形上學是什麼呢? 從反面來說, 形上學不是神祕主義, 也不是關於玄妙之事的討論; 然而, 若要從正面來定義它, 多數人都同意, 我們很難給出這樣的一個定義。要知道形上學是什麼, 就它所涉及的哲學問題而言, 我們或許可以一窺端倪。形上學處理的議題, 至少包括了下列幾個: 探討存有的本體論、時間的本質、研究心靈現象和物理現象之間的關係的心物問題、心靈狀態、人格同一、自由意志與決定論、自然律、因果關係、模態性、理性存有者等等。本課程將挑選上述的某些議題做介紹, 讓學生知悉對於這些議題我們可以採取怎樣的立場、以及支持或反對這些立場的主要論證。
The purpose of metaphysics is to understand the structure of reality: to understand which entities exist, their basic properties, and their relationship. What is metaphysics? On the contrary, metaphysics is not a myth, nor is it a discussion about mysterious things; however, if it is to define it from the front, most people agree that it is difficult for us to give such a definition. To know what metaphysics is, we may be able to make a clue as to the philosophical problems it involves. The metaphysical question includes at least the following: Exploring the intrinsic theory of existence, the nature of time, studying the relationship between the spiritual phenomena and physical phenomena, the state of mind and the identity of personality, free will and decision-making, natural laws, causal relationships, modality, rational beings, etc. This course will introduce some of the above issues to let students know what stage we can take about these issues and the main arguments that support or oppose these stages.
在中西思想發展中，對於宇宙人生普遍原理的整體思辨，以及對於終極真際(ultimate reality)的理性關懷，不僅指示了哲學之為形上學的追求，也標誌了人類心智與精神活動的重大成就。什麼是構成宇宙自然的基本原理？什麼是支配宇宙自然的普遍法則？這原理與法則和人有什麼關係？人在宇宙之中，居於何等地位？什麼是宇宙人生的究極真相？在變遷不已的表面現象背後，是否有永恆不變的原理？對於這些形上學的問題，哲學家們曾提出各種解答。本課程主要將介紹(一)形上學的概念與意義；(二)研究範圍與主要課題；（三）當代形上學主要議題。
In the development of Chinese and Western thoughts, the overall thinking on the universal principles of the universe and life, and the rational concern for ultimate reality not only indicates the pursuit of philosophy as metaphysics, but also marks the major achievements of human mind and spiritual activities. What are the basic principles of the universe and nature? What is the universal law that governs the universe and nature? What is the relationship between this principle and law and human beings? What position do people occupy in the universe? What is the ultimate truth of the universe and life? Behind the ever-changing superficial phenomena, is there a principle that never changes? Philosophers have proposed various answers to these metaphysical questions. This course will mainly introduce (I) the concepts and meanings of metaphysics; (II) the research scope and main topics; (II) the main topics of contemporary metaphysics.
Ney, A. Metaphysics: An Introduction, New York: Routledge, 2014.
Ney, A. Metaphysics: An Introduction, New York: Routledge, 2014.
| 評分項目 Grading Method | 配分比例 Grading percentage | 說明 Description |
|---|---|---|
| 期中考期中考 Midterm exam |
40 | 考試形式為簡答題、申論題、或選擇題。 |
| 期末考期末考 Final exam |
40 | 考試形式為簡答題、申論題、或選擇題。 |
| 課堂參與課堂參與 Class Participation |
20 | 於課堂上討論課本所列的習題。 |
