Summary
Highlights
The video begins by discussing the four major branches of philosophy: logic, ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics. It highlights that metaphysics, which deals with fundamental questions about existence, space, time, and the nature of being, includes the study of beauty and is further divided into special metaphysics (cosmology, psychology, theodicy) and general metaphysics (ontology).
Ontology is derived from the Greek words 'onto' (being, that which is) and 'logos' (knowledge or study). While 'logos' has various connotations, in this context, it refers to the study of something. Thus, etymologically, ontology means the 'study of being'. Traditionally and formally, ontology is defined as the specific branch of philosophy that studies beings in their ultimate causes, reasons, and principles through reason alone.
Ontology addresses fundamental questions such as: What is being? Why do things exist? What is the meaning and nature of reality? What is the underlying principle of all that exists? Is there nothing at all?
Ontology can be applied to various disciplines. In sociology, it leads to social ontology, questioning the existence of social facts versus social constructs. In education, the 'ontology of learning' examines a person's worldview and how it affects their understanding of the world, promoting exploration of differing worldviews. In research, ontology helps researchers determine the certainty they can have about the nature and existence of the objects they are researching, and how to deal with different ideas of reality.
When ontology is applied to a specific discipline, it signifies the study of the 'being' of that particular discipline. For example, social ontology means the study of the nature, dynamics, and characteristics of society.