Has the philosophy of the ancient Greeks become a way of life for western society?

Question

Has the philosophy of the ancient Greeks become a way of life for western society?

Answer 1

The Greeks invented historical analysis and did a lot for the science of logic. They also introduced a complete study of natural things (this was one of Aristotle's aims), and the philosophy of Plato influenced early Christianity quite a bit. But we have drifted very far from Socrates, who always questioned assumptions and who was a man of unparalleled integrity.

We actually owe much more to the grasping, cruel and dominating Romans.

Answer 2

There are certainly parallels, strong enough that you could argue a continuing influence.

However, there wasn't just one "philosophy of the ancient Greeks." There were numerous competing schools of thought, from the Eleatic monists (exemplified by Parmenides and Xeno) to the atomists (such as Democritus)to the better-known schools of Plato and Aristotle, and dozens of others in between. It's hard to say which one was "the" philosophy of the ancient Greeks.

Answer 3

Greek philosophy has a great influence to the western world because of its great contributions not only to philosophy but science as well. Plato and Aristotle are great players on the seed of philosophy and science in their own respective fields. There is no doubt that such great influence has a big factor of what western society is now.

Thanks for asking. Have a great day!

Answer 4

nope, nor do I understand how modern life is attached to ...the greeks

Answer 5

Western Philosophy began with the Greeks and, at various times took the lead in Western thinking. Today the paradigm is centered around Machiavelli.

No one has successfully and conclusively proven Socrates or Aristotle to have been "wrong". (There is more to Greek philosophy than these two of course). Oddly it is largely due to the Greeks that theism exists in it's present form(s).

Answer 6

Certain elements of the Ancients' philosophical teachings have survived the advent of modern Liberal government, such as the way we admire reason and believe that we have souls separate from the body.

I don't think that the ancient interest in self-examination and in asking "The Big Questions" is present much anymore, though. Locke and Hobbes pretty much threw that out with window with the comfort and complacency of Liberalism.