International Journal of Philosophy

Impact of Technological Advancements on Human Existence

Awa Vernyuy — 2024-05-04

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to examine the impact of technological advancements on human existence.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to impact of technological advancements on human existence. Preliminary empirical review revealed that technology exerted a dual influence on society, both enhancing and detracting from human well-being. Empirical findings revealed that while innovations like smartphones and social media platforms offered unprecedented connectivity, they also posed risks to mental health and social relationships. Similarly, workplace automation and AI integration improved productivity but raised concerns about job displacement. Furthermore, the study emphasized the importance of considering socio-cultural, economic, and environmental factors in understanding technology's impact. Overall, the findings underscored the need for a balanced approach to technological innovation that prioritizes human well-being, equity, and sustainability, suggesting initiatives such as promoting digital literacy and fostering inclusive technological development.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Technological Determinism, Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) and Actor-Network Theory (ANT) may be used to anchor future studies on technological advancements on human existence. The study provided recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It suggested further exploration of interdisciplinary theoretical frameworks to understand technology's complex dynamics, advocated for proactive strategies in organizations to mitigate negative impacts, and called for regulatory frameworks balancing innovation with societal values. These recommendations aimed to foster digital literacy, ethical innovation, and equitable access to technology, guiding stakeholders in navigating the complexities of technology's influence on society.

Keywords: Technological Advancements, Human Existence, Interdisciplinary, Digital Literacy, Ethical Innovation, Regulation, Equity, Innovation, Societal Values, Technology's Influence

Epistemological Implications of Radical Skepticism

Blessings Nyaiyonga — 2024-05-04

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore the epistemological implications of radical skepticism.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to epistemological implications of radical skepticism. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the pervasive influence of skepticism on individuals' perceptions and decision-making processes, leading to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty but also empowerment and critical thinking skills. The findings emphasized the importance of promoting transparency, accountability, and public engagement in scientific discourse, as well as the need for supportive learning environments and cultural sensitivity in addressing epistemological uncertainty. Overall, the study highlighted the complex nature of skepticism and underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical decision-making in navigating epistemological challenges.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Constructivism theory, Social Constructionism theory and the Pragmatism theory may be used to anchor future studies on radical skepticism. The research contributed theoretical insights into knowledge formation and psychological responses to skepticism, offering practical recommendations for educators, policymakers, and practitioners. Policy recommendations emphasized the importance of promoting transparency and accountability in governance, while practical suggestions focused on fostering critical thinking skills and media literacy among the public. The study also identified avenues for future research, encouraging interdisciplinary collaborations and comparative studies across cultural contexts. Overall, the study offered a comprehensive examination of skepticism's impact and potential strategies for mitigating its effects.

Keywords: Epistemological, Implications, Radical Skepticism, Education, Media Literacy, Governance, Psychological Responses, Interdisciplinary, Comparative Studies, Transparency, Accountability

The Nature of Moral Realism vs. Anti-Realism and Its Implications for Moral Discourse and Practice

Trycia Nabunya — 2024-05-03

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism and its implications for moral discourse and practice.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism and its implications for moral discourse and practice. Preliminary empirical review revealed that individuals' beliefs about moral realism vs. anti-realism significantly influenced their moral reasoning and behaviors, with proponents of moral realism exhibiting absolutist moral judgments while those endorsing anti-realism demonstrated greater moral flexibility. Cultural and ideological variations in these beliefs were evident, reflecting diverse societal norms and values. Longitudinal studies revealed the developmental origins of these beliefs, emphasizing the importance of early moral education. Overall, the study highlighted the complex interplay between philosophical perspectives on morality and real-world implications, advocating for informed and culturally sensitive approaches to moral discourse and practice.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development, Social Identity theory and Cultural Relativism may be used to anchor future studies on the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism. The study provided valuable recommendations for theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical advancements in moral philosophy by integrating empirical evidence with philosophical insights, thereby refining existing theories and generating new avenues for exploration. The findings had practical implications for educators, policymakers, and practitioners, emphasizing the importance of ethical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical leadership practices. Policy recommendations highlighted the need for contextually sensitive approaches to addressing ethical issues, while ethical practice emphasized fostering open dialogue and ethical reflexivity in professional settings. The study also identified future research directions, suggesting the importance of longitudinal and interdisciplinary studies to further advance our understanding of morality and ethics.

Keywords: Moral Realism, Anti-Realism, Moral Discourse, Beliefs, Philosophy, Ethics, Interdisciplinary, Collaboration, Ethical Leadership, Professional Practice

Integrating Modern Neuroscience with Traditional Philosophical Theories

Jonathan Sipa Jonathan Sipa — 2024-05-04

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to examine how changes or advancements in modern neuroscience may impact or influence traditional philosophical theories.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to modern neuroscience with traditional philosophical theories. Preliminary empirical review revealed that interdisciplinary collaboration between these fields holds significant potential. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, it was found that while challenges existed, there were also considerable opportunities for integration. The study emphasized the importance of theoretical integration and methodological innovation in advancing understanding at the intersection of neuroscience and philosophy. Practical implications were highlighted for stakeholders, including researchers, educators, policymakers, and the public, with the conclusion suggesting that embracing interdisciplinary perspectives could lead to deeper insights into the nature of the human mind and its philosophical implications.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Dual-Aspect Monism, Embodied Cognition and Enactivism theory may be used to anchor future studies on modern neuroscience with traditional philosophical theories. The study provided recommendations aimed at advancing theory, practice, and policy. Interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration between neuroscientists and philosophers were fostered to enrich theoretical discussions. Insights from the integration of neuroscience and philosophy were incorporated into educational curricula and training programs, promoting critical thinking skills. Ethical considerations were integrated into neuroscience research through the development of guidelines and regulations. Interdisciplinary research teams were formed to design innovative methodologies, bridging terminological and conceptual differences. Furthermore, international collaboration was encouraged to leverage diverse perspectives and resources.

Keywords: Integrating, Modern Neuroscience, Traditional Philosophical Theories, Interdisciplinary, Dialogue, Collaboration, Ethical Considerations, Education, Terminological Differences, International Collaboration, Critical Thinking

The Philosophical Implications of Neuroscience Research on Free Will and Moral Responsibility

Esther Johnson — 2024-05-04

Purpose: This study sought to analyze the philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. Preliminary empirical review recognized that the compatibility between neuroscientific determinism and philosophical concepts of free will. It highlighted the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address the ethical considerations and societal implications of using neuroscientific evidence in legal and ethical contexts. The study emphasized the importance of public engagement to foster informed discourse on the ethical and philosophical implications of neuroscience research. Overall, the findings underscored the complexity of navigating the intersection of neuroscience and philosophy, calling for continued interdisciplinary dialogue to address the multifaceted implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Compatibilism, Libertarianism and Determinism may be used to anchor future studies on philosophical implications of neuroscience research on free will and moral responsibility. The study provided valuable insights and recommendations across theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical advancements by synthesizing neuroscientific findings with philosophical theories, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. In practice, the study emphasized ethical considerations in research conduct and interpretation, aiming to enhance the reliability and validity of neuroscientific evidence. Policy recommendations focused on developing evidence-based policies governing the use of neuroscientific evidence and promoting public engagement and education. Additionally, the study identified areas for further research, such as longitudinal and cross-cultural studies, to advance understanding in the field. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of ethical considerations and responsible innovation in the development and application of neuroscience research.

Keywords: Philosophical Implications, Neuroscience Research, Free Will, Moral Responsibility, Ethics, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Neuroscientific Findings, Public Engagement, Education, Ethical Considerations, Responsible Innovation