TOWARDS A COMPLEMENTARY OUTLOOK FOR SCIENCE AND METAPHYSICS: THE MYTH OF REJECTING METAPHYSICS

The paper argues for a complementary stance for both science and metaphysics in fostering the appropriate knowledge-basedfor sound pedagogical process and sustainable development. Metaphysics as a domain of knowledge generally refers to the study of the most basic item, feature of reality (ontology), or the study of the most basic concepts used in an account of reality. However, metaphysics has over the years met with caustic critique and utter rejection. The paper aims at showing that various critiques and, or rejection of metaphysics is a myth and unrealistic. Through the method of conceptual analysis and logical inferences, the paper aims to establish that many of such critiquing are bedridden with inconsistencies, polemic contradictions and are products of sheer intellectual arrogance and dogmatism. The paper holds that, behind the physical world of everyday experience, lies material and non-material substance not directly accessible to the senses, and thus argues for a deeper and more complex perceptive of reality that recognizes the synthesis of science and metaphysics. The paper concludes that metaphysics and science should be taken as complementary areas of studies in the quest for solutions to the existential challenges of life. To this end, the paper recommends the consideration of metaphysics in curriculum designs and pedagogical process.