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Philosophy is the study of problems which are associated with existence, knowledge, values, reason, morals, and language. The study of philosophy addresses these kinds of problems in a systematic approach and relies on the development of rational arguments. We’ll discuss some of the history of Western philosophy beginning with its origins in Ancient Greece and culminating in current times.
Philosophy is ascribed to a love of learning and wisdom as the word Philosophy comes from the Greek and is defined at love of wisdom.
Ancient philosophy developed in Greece and Rome and originated in the 6th century BC through the 6th century AD. It is normally divided into three periods. The first period is referred to as the Pre-Socratic period followed by the period of Plato and Aristotle and finally the post Aristotelian period.
The most important of the ancient philosophers must include Plato and Aristotle. Ancient philosophy is concerned with understanding basic causes and principles of the universe. It also addresses questions about things which cannot be perceived by the senses such as numbers, elements, and gods.
Socrates is known to be the philosopher who focused more on human behavior and the need for reasoning and logic. He also explained the importance of justice and its relationship to various political structures.
During the ancient period, important features of a philosophical method were established.
The next major phase was medieval philosophy which occurred in Western Europe and the Middle East during the Middle Ages. This period was typified by the rediscovery and further development of classical Greek and Hellenistic philosophy. It was also impacted by the need to address important theological problems and integrate widespread doctrines in Islam, Judaism and Christianity.
The history of medieval philosophy is divided into two major periods. The first period occurred from the sixth century through the 12th century. At that time the works of Aristotle and Plato were cultivated and enhanced which resulted in major developments in the field of religious philosophy, logic and metaphysics.
The next period was the Renaissance philosophy which occurred from about 1350 to 1600 AD. It was an era in which the recovery of classical texts helped to shift interests and thought towards important topics of morality and mysticism.
Movements throughout this period focused on revived interests in the occult, magic, and astrology as well as the impact of nature. These changes and developments in philosophy coincided with important changes in religious beliefs and practices.
Early modern philosophy during the 17th and 18th centuries distinguished itself from independence from traditional authorities such as the Roman Catholic church and academics. It brought a new focus to the foundations of knowledge and the emergence of modern physics from traditional philosophy.
During the period the topics such as free will and God formed the basis for important moral and political philosophy.
Over the next few hundred years, philosophy continued to develop and many key practitioners emerged. Over the past century or so, philosophy has been an important mainstay in the academic world where free thought and enlightenment are crucial elements.
It has become more specialized and a number of important branches of philosophy emerged. It will continue to provide mankind with many questions and many answers which will be debated and analyzed for many more years to come.