Greek Philosophers

1. Greek Philosophers Sophists, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle

2. Greek Philosophers Sophists Main Idea- they thought that people should use knowledge to improve themselves. They believed that there is no absolute right or wrong. Important Contribution- They developed the art of public speaking and debate.

3. Greek Philosophers Influence on Today- The importance of public speaking can be seen in political debates between candidates. Socrates Main Idea- He was a critic of the Sophists. Socrates believed that there was an absolute right and wrong.

4. Greek Philosophers Important Contribution- He created the Socratic method of teaching. Influence on Today- His methods influenced the way teachers interact with their students. Plato Main Idea- He rejected the idea of democracy as a form of government. Plato believed that philosopher-kings should rule society.

5. Greek Philosophers Important Contribution- He described his vision of the ideal government in his work the Republic. Influence Today- He introduced the idea that government should be fair and just.

6. Greek Philosophers Aristotle Main Idea- Aristotle taught the idea of the “golden mean.” He believed observation and comparison were necessary to gain knowledge. Important Contribution- He wrote over 200 books on philosophy and science. He divided all government into three basic types.

7. Greek Philosophers Influence on Today- His political ideas still shape political ideas today. Greek Historians Herodotus- wrote the history of the Persian Wars. Western historians consider him the “father of history.” Thucydides- many historians consider him to be the greatest historian of the ancient world. He fought in the Peloponnesian War. He saw war and politics as the activities of human beings, not gods.