Nosce te Ipsum was written at Delphi's Apollo temple entrance. Ancient philosophy focused on man's search for meaning. Motto gained importance in Islam and Western thought
Plato (429-347 BCE) is considered one of the most influential Western philosophers. He believed in a real, eternal realm populated by forms rather than the imperfect world. Plato distinguished between observable beauty and the true essence of beauty. His philosophy emphasized the soul's independence from the body
Socrates questioned everything rather than finding definitive answers. He used the dialectic method of questioning and investigating. His philosophy divided philosophy into pre-Socratics and post-Socratics. Plato was Socrates' most revered pupil and primary disseminator
Socrates discusses with Ion, a professional rhapsode who specializes in Homer. Ephesus was under Athenian control during the time. Athens was hiring foreign mercenaries after losing many generals
Born around 469/470 BCE to sculptor Sophronicus and Phaenarete. Served in army, saved General Alcibiades at Battle of Potidaea. Married Xanthippe and had three sons
Greek philosophy emerged in 6th century BCE focusing on First Cause. Thales of Miletus proposed water as First Cause, influenced by Babylonian and Egyptian sources. Anaximander and Anaximenes suggested different elements as First Cause. Pythagoras rejected First Cause, claiming number as Truth