Philosophy Quiz

Before philosophy emerged, natural events were explained through stories. What makes myth different from philosophy?

• Myths need scientific proof, philosophy doesn't.

• Myths involve supernatural explanations, while philosophy uses logical reasoning.

• Myths are based on experiences, philosophy on knowledge.

• Myths are academic, philosophy is rational thought.

In today's world, how might media create a false image of reality, similar to Plato’s shadows in the cave?

• Media can distort reality with biased content.

• Media presents unbiased, factual information.

• Media greatly influences younger generations.

• Media shows the world exactly as it is.

Philosophers view change in many ways. Which statement reflects the idea that change is both constant and illusory?

• Change never really happens.

• Change is always happening but it is only an illusion.

• Change is ongoing but can seem both permanent and fleeting.

• Change will occur but it is unnecessary.

If an oak seed growing into an oak tree demonstrates Aristotle’s idea of potential being realized, what human action best shows this?

• Someone traveling to broaden their perspectives.

• A group of researchers testing a new theory.

• A student steadily improving a skill through hard work.

• An artist working on a painting.

How did Socrates defend himself at his trial in Athens, according to his “Apology”?

• He argued the charges were politically motivated.

• He admitted to wrongdoing but philosophically explained his actions.

• He challenged the accusations with logical reasoning.

• He pleaded ignorance of the law and sought sympathy.

Which scenario illustrates Aristotle’s Final Cause in the creation of a sculpture?

• A sculptor presenting the finished work.

• A sculptor planning the design for a statue.

• A sculptor gathering the materials for the statue.

• A sculptor chiseling a block of marble.

In modern historical studies, what would Plato suggest about how new information changes our understanding of the past?

• Modern facts about history are unchangeable.

• Interpretations of the past remain fixed.

• New data doesn’t influence historical understanding.

• Newly discovered facts can lead to changes in historical narratives.

How does Descartes' method of doubt apply to evaluating contemporary scientific ideas?

• By rigorously questioning the basic assumptions behind them.

• By accepting widely accepted scientific opinions.

• By dismissing anything not directly observable.

• By focusing entirely on mathematical evidence.

Which of these situations best represents Descartes’ Radical Doubt?

• A scientist tests mathematical principles through experiments.

• A student begins to doubt the reality of the world after learning about sensory illusions.

• A historian takes ancient documents as unquestionable truth.

• A philosopher relies on intuition alone for their conclusions.

What is a unique characteristic of philosophy compared to other fields of study?

• Philosophy critically examines the underlying principles of other knowledge areas.

• Philosophy provides solutions to unresolved scientific mysteries.

• Philosophy offers absolute truth in moral and ethical matters.

• Philosophy gives empirical explanations of natural phenomena.