Definition of Metaphysics: The Existence Of Matter

By Times of India

Definition of Metaphysics: The Existence Of Matter

Our fixed point of reference is the existence of our sense data, and what they are like.

But the existence of the Self, the 'subject' of those sense data, is as questionable as that of the physical objects, the 'objects' of those sense data.

Different people looking at the same thing consider the physical object as accounting for the unity of various perspectives.

This begs the question, as to whether anything at all exists beyond my sense data.

The existence of physical objects (and other people) can be considered as a hypothesis, similar to scientific hypotheses.

Some hypotheses are better than others, namely if they account for the data and do so more adequately and/or more simply. The hypothesis that life is but a dream cannot be ruled out on logical grounds, but there is no reason to believe it, for we can account for our sense data with a better, simpler hypothesis.

We do not come by our belief in the external world through argument; it is an instinctive belief.

We need good reason to change our beliefs from what they are, or to give up our instinctive beliefs. There is so far no good reason to give up the instinctive belief in the external world.

So the general rule is: "We cannot have good reason to reject a belief except on the grounds of some other belief."

Thus sceptical doubts do not suffice to force rejection of our beliefs.

Hence, the modest but important function of metaphysics is, not to give us new knowledge but to help us to systematise our beliefs.

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See also: Metaphysical Principles, Definition of Metaphysics, Metaphysical Techniques, Miracles, Creating Miracles Faith and Belief, Spiritual Guidance, Peace of Mind, Life and Beyond, Body Mind and Soul