Greek Philosophy: From Pre-Socratic to Hellenistic

Posted on Jan 23, 2025 in Philosophy and ethics

Greek Philosophy: From Pre-Socratic to Hellenistic

Philosophy is the art that seeks to discover rational nature, human beings, the universe, and the changes that occur within them. The term Greek philosophy refers to periods that existed before and after Socrates, namely:

  • Pre-Socratic
  • Socratic
  • Systematic
  • Hellenistic

Pre-Socratic Period

The Pre-Socratic, or cosmological, period focused on physis (nature). Philosophers sought to rationally understand the origin and changes occurring in nature over time to understand what actually happened to human beings. Thales was a prominent figure during this period.

Socratic Period

The Socratic, or anthropological, period was marked by the democracy that gave equality to all in the polis (city). All were eligible to participate in government. This period was also marked by a change in Greek education, as people needed to speak and lead others.

Systematic Period

This period was marked by the systematic action of Aristotle, who introduced all non-specific knowledge. If one knew all things that cover various principles and forms of thought, this was called logic.

Hellenistic Period

The Hellenistic period emerged after the decline of political polls and the rise of doctrines that, in addition to working with nature and logic, sought to emphasize happiness and teach ways of addressing life.

Key Philosophers

In these periods, there were outstanding philosophers such as:

  • Socrates, who founded humanist philosophy
  • Plato, Socrates’ follower, who founded the Academy of Athens
  • Aristotle, considered the greatest philosopher of logic, who systematized knowledge in metaphysics, morals, and politics