METAPHYSICAL NATURALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Metaphysical naturalism is a philosophical worldview that posits the existence of a natural, physical universe as the fundamental reality, devoid of any supernatural or spiritual elements. It is a branch of metaphysics that focuses on understanding and explaining the nature of reality from a naturalistic perspective. This worldview asserts that the principles, laws, and explanations of the natural sciences are sufficient to comprehend and account for all phenomena and events in the universe.
Metaphysical naturalists hold that everything, including human existence and consciousness, can be explained by physical processes and interactions occurring within the natural world. They reject the idea of any transcendental or supernatural entities, forces, or explanations. Metaphysical naturalism embraces a reductionist approach, advocating that all phenomena and properties can ultimately be reduced to and understood in terms of the fundamental principles of physics.
This philosophical position is often associated with atheism since it opposes the existence of a personal God or any form of deity responsible for the creation or sustenance of the universe. It asserts that reality can be adequately understood through empirical methods, scientific inquiry, and rationality, without needing to rely on religious or spiritual explanations. Metaphysical naturalism promotes a materialistic and deterministic view of the world, where everything that occurs is a consequence of natural laws and physical causes.
It is important to note that metaphysical naturalism is a broad and complex worldview, with various interpretations and nuances within the philosophical community. Different philosophers may emphasize different aspects of naturalistic explanations and hold different commitments regarding the limits and scope of scientific inquiry.
Etymology of METAPHYSICAL NATURALISM
The word "metaphysical" comes from the Greek word "meta" meaning "beyond" and "physics" meaning natural world or nature. It originally referred to the branch of philosophy concerned with explaining the fundamental nature of reality, beyond the physical or observable realm.
The word "naturalism" is derived from the Latin word "natura" meaning "nature" and refers to the philosophical belief that everything in the universe can be explained by natural causes and laws, without the need for supernatural or divine intervention.
When combined, "metaphysical naturalism" refers to the philosophical position that the natural world is all that exists, and that there are no supernatural or metaphysical entities or forces operating in the universe. It implies a rejection of supernaturalism and a belief that everything can be explained in natural terms.
