Ancient_Greek_Philosophers_Final.pdf

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“My ideas have served as a starting point for both philosophy and the physical sciences.” “I teach by example and I live by what I teach, no matter the consequences.” “My approach is s... cientific and empirical; we learn about truth from observation and discovery.” “In order to find truth, we must first identify what makes a thing what it is, its essence. RATIONALE Plato proposed the existence of essences in his doctrine of the Forms. As a result, it is more likely that he would have made this statement. As a rationalist philosopher, Plato believed that knowledge does not rely on human senses alone, and can be accessed through the existence of essences. The statements which involve science and empiricism are reflective of Aristotle's views. The statement about teaching and living by example is reflective of Socrates' philosophy. CONCEPT Aristotle: The Dissection of Reality 3 According to Socrates in the Phaedo, why might death be an advantage to the philosopher? In life, the Social Contract requires people to behave according to the needs and wants of others. Death is the ultimate distinction between knowledge and opinion. Only humans can seek knowledge and truth, but their ability to do so ends with death. Eyes, ears, and other bodily organs can distract one from the attainment of truth and knowledge. RATIONALE The Phaedo is a conversation between Socrates and his students about death. It takes place just before his execution. During this conversation, Socrates explains why philosophers should not fear death, which he defines [Show More]

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