IB Philosophy Vocabulary

Absolutism - Answer- The claim that there exists a universally valid moral system. Absolutism (2) - Answer- This idea opposes moral relativism which denies that there exists a universally applicable set of moral principles. Absolutism (3) - Answer- This idea can also claim that moral rules of principles do not admit any exceptions. Absurd - Answer- Items and or ideas that are irrational, self-contradictory, and patently false. Absurd (2) - Answer- Items and ideas that defy the rules of logic or are flagrantly wrong-headed. Absurd (3) - Answer- Some existentialists believe that human existence is considered this because human existence lacks a definite purpose and is 'meaningless'. Agnosticism - Answer- A theory according to which things within a specified realm are unknowable. Agnosticism (2) - Answer- The view that we cannot know whether or not God exists. Agnosticism (3) - Answer- The view, to be found in positivist theories, that ultimate reality is unknowable. Alienation - Answer- A process of estrangement and of isolation from a natural or social contest. Alienation (2) - Answer- The condition arising as a result of estrangement or isolation from a natural or social context. Alienation (3) - Answer- The subjective experience of being in a condition arising as a result of estrangement or isolation from a natural or social context. Alienation (4) - Answer- An approach generalized by Karl Marx. Exists in religion, other cultural manifestations, political institutions, and economic activity. Ex) a worker is alienated in that he or she lacks the control over their working conditions. A Priori - Answer- Relating to or denoting reasoning or knowledge that proceeds from theoretical deduction or self-evident propositions rather than from observation or experience.