Roman Philosophy: History, Figures, and Influence

Philosophy in Ancient Rome

Philosophy in Rome, while deeply rooted in Greek traditions, experienced a significant evolution. It was initially introduced and popularized through Scipio's circle, which embraced Panhellenism. While this cultural movement was welcomed, it faced strong nationalist opposition. Aspects of philosophy like logic and metaphysics received little attention in Rome. Conversely, ethics, focusing on practical life, immediately attracted Roman thinkers.

Stoicism and Epicureanism were the dominant philosophical schools influencing Roman thought, although Stoicism failed to permeate the masses. Stoicism laid the foundations of Roman humanism and later influenced Christian thought. Its implementation occurred through Scipio's circle, the Gracchi, and Cicero.

Golden Period (88 BC - 14 BC)

This era includes figures like Lucretius, author of "De Rerum Natura."

M. Cicero (106-43 BC)

• Political Philosophy Treatises:
  • "De Republica": Dialogues between friends on various forms of government, adapting theory to Rome.
  • "De Legibus": Lays the foundations for Augustus' policies.
• Religious Philosophy Treatises (Theodicy):
  • "De Natura Deorum": Explores Greek philosophical theories on the existence and providence of the gods.
  • "De Fato": Presents a rationalistic spirit, opposing beliefs in omens and astrology.
• Moral Philosophy Treatises:
  • "De Finibus Bonorum et Malorum": Discusses absolute good and evil.
  • "Tusculanae Disputationes": Concludes that the wise man is superior, placing supreme good in virtue.
  • "Cato Maior vel de Senectute"
  • "Laelius de Amicitia vel"
  • "Academica": Addresses the problem of the origin of human knowledge.

Characteristics of Cicero's work:

• Introduction of Greek philosophy in Rome with a new, eclectic system.
• Prioritization of ethical principles.
• Enrichment of Stoic aspects.
• Emphasis on the Latin language.

Silver Period (14-180 AD)

Seneca (4 BC - 65 AD)

Born in Cordoba, Seneca was taken to Rome as a child and received an excellent education. He began his professional life as an "orator." His adult life and activities were marked by insecurity under Roman rule. Claudius banished him to Corsica, instigated by his wife. However, after Claudius's death, his new wife brought Seneca back to Rome to educate her child, Nero.

When Nero succeeded Claudius, Seneca became his advisor, holding the post until 62 AD. He spent his last years dedicated to research and writing philosophical treatises. His attitude earned him the emperor's hatred, who accused him of participating in a conspiracy and sentenced him to death. Seneca took his own life by opening his veins in a warm bath.

Works:

• Dialogues of fundamentally Stoic inspiration: "De Brevitate Vitae," "De Vita Beata."
• Letters, or "Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium": 120 letters contained in 20 books, extracting the essence of his thinking on various subjects.
• "Quaestiones Naturales": A collection of knowledge about different weather phenomena, geography, and astronomy.