Philosophy, as we know it today, is often thought to have originated in ancient Greece. Although many ancient Greek philosophers may not be well known to the general public, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle still form the subject of education in many countries, all over the world. But does ancient Greek philosophy still influence modern thought today? 

What is the meaning of the word philosophy?

The term “philosophy” itself is of ancient Greek origin. In fact, the word “philosophy” comes from the Greek words “philo,” meaning “love,” and “sophia,” meaning “wisdom.” Philosophy is generally defined as the study of fundamental questions about knowledge, reality, and existence. Besides, it often involves critical thinking, reasoning, and argumentation.

How did philosophy start?

First, there were only religions and myths. Difficult questions, like why the sun comes up, or what happens when you die, were answered by faith in a story people came up with. During this time, many people believed in multiple gods that worked together to create the features of our world. Everything that we now know as science, physics, or astrology.

Philosophy started when people stopped believing in these stories and wanted to know the real reason. Reasoning is the base of philosophy. As soon as people started to answer difficult what, how, and why questions about our world with rational, explainable answers, philosophy was born.

Did philosophy only start in Greece?

The word philosophy is of Greek origin. Nevertheless, the origins of philosophy can also be traced back to ancient civilizations in other parts of the world. India and Persia, for example, answered philosophical questions as early as 3.000 B.C.. However, in these cultures, philosophy was often closely tied to religion and spiritual practices. Many philosophical ideas were developed within the context of these traditions.

The ancient Greeks were the first to separate philosophy, or reasoning, from religion, starting around the 6th century B.C.. Ancient Greek philosophy was considered advanced for its time. The ancient Greek philosophers were known for their innovative and original ideas. They made significant contributions to a wide range of fields including politics, ethics, science, and metaphysics.

Ancient Greek philosophy today

Ancient Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are considered to be some of the most influential philosophers in Western thought. Their ideas have had a lasting impact on the development of philosophy and other disciplines. The works of ancient Greek philosophers are often studied and discussed within the context of philosophy and Classics departments at universities.

Here is an overview of some ways in which ancient Greek philosophers have influenced modern thought and philosophy.

The concept of democracy

Ancient Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle all wrote about the importance of democracy and the role of the citizen in a democratic society. These ideas have had a lasting influence on modern democracy and political thought.

“The measure of a man is what he does with power.”

Socrates

The idea of natural rights

The ancient Greek philosopher Zeno is credited with developing the concept of natural rights. In other words, the idea that all people have certain inherent rights that cannot be taken away by the state or any other authority. This concept has had a significant influence on modern political and legal thought.

“Nature has given to man a tongue as a means of communication, hands for the purposes of labor, and reason for the discovery of truth and the conduct of life.”

Zeno

The pursuit of wisdom

The ancient Greek philosophers were known for their pursuit of wisdom. Especially their ideas about knowledge and truth. These have continued to be studied and debated in the modern world.

“Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.”

Plato

The concept of the good life

Many ancient Greek philosophers, such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, wrote about the concept of the good life and what it means to live a virtuous and fulfilling life. These ideas have had a lasting influence on modern philosophical thought about ethics and morality.

“The ultimate value of life depends upon awareness and the power of contemplation rather than upon mere survival.”

Aristotle