Evolution of Western Philosophy: From Cosmos to Socrates

1. Cosmological Period (6th Century BC)

Western philosophy began in the Greek colonies of Ionia and Magna Graecia. Early philosophers like Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes, Heraclitus, Parmenides, Empedocles, Anaxagoras, and Democritus sought rational explanations for the cosmos.

2. Anthropological Turn

Focus shifted from nature to humans and society, exploring ethics and political issues.

3. The Sophists (5th Century BC)

Professional teachers from various regions came to Athens. Notable Sophists include:

• Protagoras of Abdera: Advocated relativism, stating "Man is the measure of all things."
• Gorgias of Leontini: Argued for radical skepticism, denying the possibility of being, knowledge, and communication.

They focused on rhetoric and persuasion, criticized by Plato.

4. Socrates

Unlike the Sophists, Socrates opposed skepticism and relativism. He emphasized self-knowledge and the pursuit of truth through dialogue.

Socratic Method

• Irony: Exposing ignorance through questioning.
• Maieutics: Helping individuals discover truth within themselves.

Socrates believed virtue is knowledge and can be learned, making philosophy crucial for moral education.

5. Other Influences

Pythagoreans

Plato's travels brought him into contact with Pythagoreans, influencing his emphasis on mathematics and the transmigration of souls.

Parmenides and Heraclitus

Their contrasting views on being and change shaped Plato's Theory of Ideas.

Plato's Academy

Plato founded the Academy, where he taught his philosophy and influenced notable students like Aristotle.