ancient greek philosophers

ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHERS

Philosophers - “Lovers of Wisdom”

Philosophers are people who question the world around them seeking answers to life’s questions and seeking “truths” of the world.

Greek Philosophers• After the Peloponnesian War, Athenians grew critical of democracy and questioned the ways of the world

• Core Beliefs of Greek Philosophers:1. The Universe is orderly; there are “universal

laws” that apply to everything and do not change over time.

2. People can learn to understand these laws by applying reason and logic.

Socrates • Believed natural laws about truth and justice existed

• Encouraged others to question themselves and their morals and to seek knowledge

• Accused (and convicted) of “corrupting the youth” with his ideas – sentencedto death

Plato • Socrates’ student• Legacy: Writer of The Republic. • Believed states should have three classes:

1. Artisan/farmer class2. Warriors3. Ruling class

• Philosopher-kings, the enlightened ones, should rule

Aristotle • Plato’s student• Questioned how the world works, human’s beliefs, thoughts, and knowledge.

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