From Myth to Logos: The Rise of Rational Thought

From Myth to Logos: A Shift in Thinking

The transition from myth to logos signifies a fundamental shift in mindset: the capacity to conceive of myths yielded to the rational approach of Philosophy. This transformation in thinking unfolded in Greece during the Archaic period of its history (8th-6th centuries BCE). Throughout this era, certain individuals began to challenge both the mythical interpretations of reality and traditional mythical religion.

Mythical explanations of reality, presented as truths, gradually failed to satisfy human curiosity. Consequently, by the 6th century BCE, early philosophers emerged, who demanded objective testing and demonstration, essentially seeking rational explanations rather than narratives. The traditional mythic religion, with its idealization of the present life, ceased to provide solace for many individuals of this age. Disillusioned by harsh realities, they harbored aspirations and dreams of a better afterlife, a life promised by new, mystical religions originating from the East.

Moral Intellectualism: Socrates' Perspective

The core principle of moral intellectualism is that moral experience is rooted in the knowledge of good. Only through understanding what constitutes goodness and justice can one act justly and rightly. Socrates posed the following observations to his fellow citizens:

• When someone is ill, the family doesn't vote on the appropriate remedy; instead, they consult a doctor and follow their advice.
• When an army seeks victory, they don't hold a referendum on attack strategies; the strategist determines how to lead the soldiers.
• When constructing a building, we don't vote on the building process; we rely on the architect's expertise.

Socrates then inquired: Why, when it comes to the most crucial matters – the well-being of the city and the laws governing citizens' coexistence – do we allow everyone's opinion and submit to the majority, rather than consulting those with knowledge?

Moral intellectualism posits that moral and political issues should be the domain of experts. This Socratic proposition can lead to interpretations that are undemocratic and elitist, as clearly evident in the political philosophy of his disciple, Plato.