| Word |
Meaning |
| ATOMISM |
The ancient theory of Democritus, Epicurus, and Lucretius,
according to which simple, minute, indivisible, and indestructible
particles are the basic components of the entire universe |
| ALTRUISM |
Unselfish concern for the welfare of others; selflessness |
| ANALOGY |
Similarity in some respects between things that are otherwise
dissimilar |
| CATHARSIS |
A release of emotional tension, as after an overwhelming
experience, that restores or refreshes the spirit |
| CYNICISM |
An attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a
general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others |
| DIALECTIC |
The art or practice of arriving at the truth by the exchange
of logical arguments |
| EGOISM |
Excessive preoccupation with one's own well-being and interests,
usually accompanied by an inflated sense of self-importance |
| EXTRINSIC |
Originating from the outside; external |
| MONISM |
The doctrine that mind and matter are formed from, or reducible
to, the same ultimate substance or principle of being |
| SOPHISM |
A plausible but fallacious argument |
