Glossary-O
Got a moment before you start on glossary-o? Occam's razor is also called the principle of parsimony. These days it is usually interpreted to mean something like "the simpler the explanation, the better" or "don't multiply hypotheses unnecessarily." In any case, Occam's razor is a principle which is frequently used outside of ontology, e.g., by philosophers of science in an effort to establish criteria for choosing from among theories with equal explanatory power. When giving explanatory reasons for something, don't posit more than is necessary. Occult means "hidden." It refers to such things as alchemy, magic, astrology, and other arts of divination which use incantations or magic formulae in an attempt to gain hidden knowledge or power. Occultism refers to the belief in hidden or mysterious powers that can be controlled by humans who have special knowledge of these powers. An Oracle is a shrine or temple sanctuary consecrated to the worship and consultation of a prophetic god. The person who transmits prophecies from a deity at such a shrine is also called an oracle, as is the prophecy or revelation itself. Osteopathy - Physician Doctors of Osteopathy are fully trained physicians licensed to practice all phases of medicine, including writing prescriptions and performing surgery. With their extra training in holistic healing techniques, some D.O.s also practice OMM, Osteopathic Manual Medicine. Using OMM, DO's apply gentle manipulation to the soft tissues and bones over the entire body to restore normal structure and remove restrictions. This enhances all circulatory systems allowing the body's own healing powers to better reach ailing parts. A special form of OMM called Cranial Osteopathy increases the vitality of the central nervous system. By combining such natural therapies with a physician's knowledge of western medicine, D.O.s can correct the true underlying cause of disease. They can relieve pain, prevent disease and speed recovery from nearly all medical problems. An out-of-body experience (OBE) is a feeling of departing from one's physical body and observing both one's self and the world from outside of one's body.
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