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 – sentenced
to death
Plato
• Socrates’ student• Legacy: Writer of The Republic. • Believed states should have three classes:
1. Artisan/farmer class
2. Warriors
3. Ruling class
• Philosopher-kings,
the enlightened ones,
should rule
Aristotle
• Plato’s student• Questioned how the world works, human’s beliefs, thoughts, and knowledge.