How Do You Spell METAPHYSICAL REALISM?

Pronunciation: [mˌɛtəfˈɪzɪkə͡l ɹˈi͡əlɪzəm] (IPA)

Metaphysical realism, pronounced /ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪkəl riəˌlɪzəm/ is a philosophical term that combines the ideas of metaphysics and realism. The word "metaphysical" is spelled with a silent "h" and the emphasis is on the third syllable "-sical" (/sɪkəl/). The word "realism" is spelled as it sounds, with emphasis on the second syllable "-al" (/riəˌlɪzəm/). Together, this term refers to the belief that reality exists independently of our perception or interpretation of it, and that it can be understood through metaphysical inquiry.

METAPHYSICAL REALISM Meaning and Definition

1. Metaphysical realism is a philosophical position that posits the existence of an objective reality that is independent of human perception and conceptualization. It asserts that there is an ultimate, mind-independent reality that exists beyond our subjective experiences and interpretations. According to metaphysical realism, the world exists as it is, regardless of our understanding or knowledge of it.

   This viewpoint contends that there are objective truths or facts about the world, which can be discovered and understood through investigation and rational inquiry. It suggests that our subjective experiences and interpretations may not fully capture the underlying nature of reality or the essential properties of objects and phenomena.

   Metaphysical realists believe that there are universal principles and laws that govern the physical and conceptual realms of existence, and that these principles exist independently of human thought or perception. They argue that the world operates according to an objective structure and order, which may be discovered through scientific investigation and logical reasoning.

   This philosophical position stands in contrast to various forms of metaphysical idealism, which posit that reality is fundamentally dependent on human perception or consciousness. Metaphysical realism maintains that reality exists independently of our consciousness and that our understanding of it may be limited or imperfect. It seeks to establish a framework for objective knowledge and understanding of the world, based on the assumption that there is a mind-independent reality waiting to be comprehended.

Etymology of METAPHYSICAL REALISM

The word "metaphysical" derives from the Greek words "meta" (meaning "beyond" or "transcending") and "physika" (meaning "physics" or "nature"). In philosophy, it refers to the branch of metaphysics, which deals with the fundamental nature of reality. It explores questions beyond the scope of empirical and scientific evidence, such as the existence of God, the nature of existence, and the relationship between mind and body.

Realism, on the other hand, is derived from the Latin word "realis", meaning "real" or "existing". In philosophy, it refers to an ontological stance that posits the existence of an external reality independent of human perception or thought.

Therefore, the term "metaphysical realism" is a combination of these two concepts. It denotes a philosophical position that asserts the existence of a transcendent, independent reality beyond our thoughts, perceptions, or interpretations.