Mythology, Philosophy, and Social Sciences
Mythology
Cosmogonic Myths
Myths are stories of imaginary events, often featuring supernatural beings or extraordinary figures like gods, demigods, heroes, and monsters. Cosmogonic myths explain the creation of the world, often originating from a primordial ocean. Sometimes, a race of giants, like the Titans, plays a pivotal role as the first inhabitants of Earth.
Theogonic Myths
These myths tell the origin of the gods. For example, Athena emerges fully armed from the head of Zeus.
Etiological Myths
Etiological myths explain the origin of beings, things, techniques, and institutions.
Philosophy and Ethics
Deontological Theory
Deontological theory emphasizes imposing indisputable moral standards, based on dogmatic ethics.
Teleological Theory
In contrast to deontological theory, teleological theory suggests that moral standards should be adaptable and beneficial to society as a whole.
The Categorical Imperative
A central concept in Kantian ethics, the categorical imperative is a self-sufficient command intended to govern human behavior independently of any religion or ideology. It represents moral conduct and the laws that reflect it.
Marxist Theory
Marx focused on the structures of capitalism that caused alienation for the working class.
Coercion and the State
The state uses coercion as a tool to establish regulatory power. Legitimate authority uses coercion to enforce legal compliance and maintain general deterrence.
Social Sciences
Animal Behavior
Animals react to abnormalities in their environment or within their bodies.
Constitution
A constitution, whether written or unwritten, is the fundamental law of a sovereign state. It defines the relationship between state powers (legislative, executive, and judicial) and between the state and its citizens, guaranteeing rights and freedoms.
Citizenship
A citizen is a member of a political community, with associated rights and duties.
Social Organization
A social organization or institution is a group of people interacting to achieve certain objectives. It can also refer to institutions that socialize their members.
Socialism
Socialism is a political and economic ideology advocating for the socialization of the means of production, which can be collectivist, administrative, state-controlled, or community-owned. Definitions and methods vary widely.
Social Democracy
Social democracy, originating from the socialist movement, aims to reform capitalism democratically through state regulation and social programs.
The State
The state is a sovereign political entity with institutions that regulate life within a given territory. States can have full or limited capacity to act independently.