What philosophical term refers to the nature of being or reality?

The term that best refers to the nature of being or reality is ontology. Ontology is a branch of philosophy that studies the nature of existence, reality, and the categories of being. It addresses questions related to what entities exist and how they can be grouped and related within a hierarchy. In chiropractic philosophy, understanding the ontological framework can help practitioners consider the essence of the human body, health, and healing processes within their practice.

Metaphysics also deals with fundamental aspects of reality, but it encompasses a broader range of inquiries, including questions about the nature of the universe, time, space, and causation, which might not focus exclusively on being itself. Epistemology, on the other hand, pertains to knowledge and belief, exploring how we acquire knowledge and what justifies our beliefs. Axiology deals with values and ethics, discussing what is good, right, or valuable, which is outside the realm of defining the nature of being or reality.

By understanding ontology, chiropractors can better articulate their philosophical stance regarding the principles that guide their practice and the underlying realities concerning health and disease.