metaphysics
UK: ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪks | US: ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪks
n. The branch of philosophy that examines the fundamental nature of reality, including concepts like existence, time, space, and causality.
n. Abstract or theoretical reasoning, often detached from practical considerations.
metaphysics = meta<beyond> + physics<natural science>
- meta (from Greek meta, meaning "beyond" or "after"): Indicates transcendence or higher abstraction.
- physics (from Greek physis, meaning "nature"): Refers to the study of the natural world.
Etymology Origin:
The term metaphysics originated from Aristotle's works, which were compiled by later editors under the title Ta Meta ta Physika ("The [Works] After the Physics"). Initially, it simply denoted their placement in the collection, but over time, it came to signify the study of concepts "beyond" the physical world—questions about existence, substance, and causality that surpass empirical observation.
Metaphysics explores whether reality is fundamentally material or spiritual.
His argument drifted into metaphysics, leaving practical solutions behind.
The debate between determinism and free will is a classic topic in metaphysics.
Modern physics often intersects with metaphysics in discussions about the nature of time.
She criticized the theory as pure metaphysics, lacking experimental evidence.