What Is Philosophy? 7 Ideas That Shaped the World

Philosophy explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and values. Discover 7 ideas that shaped human thought.

1

The Socratic Method

Socrates taught that knowledge emerges through dialogue and critical questioning for truth.

2

Platonic Idealism

Plato proposed perfect, eternal Forms beyond the material world, shaping metaphysics and theology.

3

Aristotelian Logic

Aristotle’s formal logic uses syllogisms to explain nature, laying groundwork for science and computing.

4

Rationalism vs Empiricism

Descartes valued reason as knowledge source; Locke argued experience matters most, fueling modern epistemology.

5

Humanism

Renaissance humanists emphasized human dignity and potential, inspiring democratic values and human rights.

6

Existentialism

Existentialists like Sartre said individuals create their own meaning in a chaotic world through free choice.

7

Utilitarianism

Bentham and Mill held morality should maximize happiness for the most people, influencing ethics and policy.