Overview
This lecture introduces the origin of Western philosophy, highlighting its beginnings in wonder and its emergence in ancient Greek cities such as Miletus (Ionia).
Philosophic Wonder as the Origin of Philosophy
- Philosophy, according to Socrates (as reported by Plato), begins in wonder.
- Aristotle expands this, saying philosophy arises from perplexity and the desire to escape ignorance.
- Philosophic wonder is not just amazement, but a drive to understand and make sense of the mysteries of the world.
- The process of philosophizing starts when one seeks answers to questions about existence, purpose, or the world's origins.
Geographic and Historical Origins of Western Philosophy
- Western philosophy is said to have originated in Miletus (Ionia, now Turkey), with Thales as the first recognized philosopher.
- Miletus was a powerful and wealthy Greek city, becoming the first center of scholarship in ancient Greece.
- After Miletus declined due to Persian conquest in 546 BCE, intellectual activity moved to Croton in southern Italy, where Pythagoras founded the Pythagorean Brotherhood.
Pre-Philosophical Influences and Historical Context
- Other ancient cultures (Egyptian, Babylonian, Indian, Chinese) had significant thinkers and "pre-philosophical" ideas.
- Some Greek philosophers were influenced by Egyptian and Babylonian thought.
- Thales is recognized as the first philosopher mainly because he was the first to record his philosophy in writing, featuring reasoned arguments.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Philosophic Wonder — a sense of perplexity that prompts the search for understanding and clarity rather than mere amazement.
- Miletus/Ionia — ancient Greek city and region credited as the birthplace of Western philosophy.
- Thales — regarded as the first Western philosopher for documenting his philosophical inquiries.
- Pre-philosophical Rumblings — early forms of speculative thought in ancient non-Greek cultures.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the development of Western philosophy from the pre-Socratic to the modern period in upcoming editions.
- Visit the provided website for the full lecture transcript.