An aim, according to Dewey, is a decision that comes from within after it becomes conscious and intelligent. They are linked to results.

Dualism is the division of a phenomenon or a concept into two isolated spheres, e.g., man-nature dualism, mind-body dualism, and the active-passive dualism of knowledge. In this text, Dewey typically argues against dualism and proposes a holistic, integrated approach.

Empiricism is the information that is rooted in the observation that comes from using the five senses. Empirical observation became an important feature of modern science starting in the 16th century.