ontology

[gwray]

I wrestle with the difference between ontology—the study of existence; and teleology—the study of purpose.

[Dr. Goodword]

Ontology is the study of reality, what is real, what is not without concern for intention. Teleology is a prejudiced view of reality seeking a purpose for things. The OED give us this definition of teleology:

"The theory or belief that divine purpose or design is discernible in the natural or physical world; the theory or belief that certain acts, processes, or phenomena are to be explained in terms of intention, design, or purposiveness rather than by prior causes; explanation in such terms. Also as a count noun: a particular theory or belief of this kind."

Teleology assumes that things are here by design and tries to determine what the design is all about. It becomes theology under the assumption that God created everything by design. What is that design.

Sorry I couldn't include a note about teleology in my treatment of ontology.

[gwray]

Thanks.

[Dr. Goodword]

Thank you for the first order of my new book.