Hellenistic Philosophy Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is considered the main purpose of life in Hellenistic philosophy?

  • To engage in intellectual debates
  • To achieve material wealth
  • To gain social status
  • To attain peace of mind (correct)

Which school of thought focuses on the belief that knowledge may be uncertain?

  • Stoicism
  • Epicureanism
  • Peripateticism
  • Scepticism (correct)

What was Epicurus’s primary contribution to the understanding of the cosmos?

  • All things are created by divine intervention
  • The universe is a living entity
  • The cosmos is a product of chance with infinite worlds (correct)
  • Everything consists of a single elemental substance

What is the term used to describe the 'choice' between different Hellenistic schools of thought?

<p>Haeresis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the setting of Epicurus’s school, known for promoting a tranquil environment?

<p>The Garden (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Pyrrho, what is the effect of adopting a sceptical attitude towards knowledge?

<p>Achievement of ataraxia or freedom from disturbance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the concept of 'kanôn' in Epicurean philosophy?

<p>A standard for determining truth (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What philosophical approach did Epicurus borrow from the atomists?

<p>The concept of atomic movement through void (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of Pyrrhonian skepticism as described?

<p>To achieve tranquility (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is noted for influencing the development of Roman philosophical language?

<p>Cicero (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method does Pyrrhonian skepticism employ to achieve suspension of judgment?

<p>The modes of Pyrrhonian skepticism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Galen view the relationship between reason and experience in medical practice?

<p>They must be constantly checked against each other (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What criticism does Montaigne have regarding the Reformation debates?

<p>They are a waste of time and lead nowhere (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Empiricist medical school from the Rationalist medical school?

<p>Emphasis on observable facts and results (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a tenet of the skeptic's philosophy regarding decision-making?

<p>Likely impressions guide reasonable action (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the philosophical outlook that Aenesidemus adopted in response to the Academy's 'dogmatic turn'?

<p>Pyrrhonian skepticism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concept that Plotinus introduces to Neoplatonism?

<p>The One as the ultimate cause of everything (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Plotinus, which of the following is characterized by a lack of unity?

<p>Matter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Plotinus suggest is the relationship between good and evil?

<p>Evil is the absence of the good. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity does Plotinus describe as the secondary activity of the One?

<p>Emanating the Intellect (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosophical school was established after Plato's death that incorporates Stoic elements?

<p>Old Academy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concept does the myth of Narcissus illustrate in the context of Neoplatonism?

<p>The soul's superiority over the material world (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'epochê' refer to in the Skeptical Academy?

<p>Suspension of judgment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Plotinus identify the One with in his philosophy?

<p>The ultimate Good (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason behind the emergence of Neoplatonism in the 3rd century?

<p>A time of crisis leading to spiritual movements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following activities is associated with the divine Intellect according to Plotinus?

<p>Contemplation of the One (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary therapeutic goal of Epicurean philosophy?

<p>To cure anxiety and achieve pleasure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Epicureanism view the existence and role of gods?

<p>Gods exist but do not affect human life (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'static pleasure' in Epicurean philosophy?

<p>A state of being free from pain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Stoicism, how are choices viewed in relation to determinism?

<p>Choices are known to God but originate from us (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not one of the four Stoic virtues?

<p>Wealth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Stoic concept of 'apatheia' intended to achieve?

<p>Complete emotional detachment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Stoic 'phantasia' play in their philosophy?

<p>It is the basis of all emotional responses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes natural pleasures from non-natural pleasures in Epicurean philosophy?

<p>Non-natural pleasures lead to pain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Stoicism, what is the ultimate goal of human life?

<p>Living in accordance with reason (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Stoicism, what is the significance of 'logos'?

<p>It signifies rational order in the cosmos (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Epicurus conclude about the nature of death?

<p>Death is nothing to us (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosophical school emerged alongside Stoicism?

<p>Epicureanism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Seneca, which stage comes first in the process of emotional response?

<p>Involuntary physical reaction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Stoic approach to handling fear according to their teachings?

<p>Use rational judgement to overcome fear (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Age of Anxiety

A state of heightened anxiety and uncertainty, often characterized by societal and cultural upheaval.

Neoplatonism

A school of thought that emphasizes the immaterial soul's transcendence and its journey toward a higher, more perfect world.

The One

The ultimate, uncaused cause of all things, existing beyond being and characterized by pure unity.

Emanation

The process by which things emanate or flow from the One, creating a hierarchy of realities including the divine Intellect, the Soul, and ultimately, the material world.

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Divine Intellect

The realm of perfect, unchanging Forms, representing the true essence of things in the material world.

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Soul

The spiritual principle that animates the material world, connecting the Forms to Matter.

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Matter

The absence of unity and goodness, representing the lower end of reality.

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Plotinus's view of Evil

The belief that evil is not a separate force but rather the absence of goodness, arising from the limitations of matter.

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Skepticism

A philosophical approach that emphasizes the questioning of knowledge and suspending judgment until sufficient evidence is gathered.

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Epochê

The practice of withholding judgment, abstaining from affirming or denying any claims.

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Stoic vs. Skeptic Philosophy in Practice

The Stoics believed in living in accordance with reason, but skeptics argued that their philosophy was impractical for everyday life, as it required constant suspension of judgment.

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Pyrrhonian Skepticism: Tranquility through Suspension

Pyrrhonian skepticism aims to achieve tranquility (ataraxia) by suspending judgment on all matters. This approach contrasts with academic skepticism, which focuses on intellectual inquiry rather than ethical goals.

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Modes of Pyrrhonian Skepticism

The Modes of Pyrrhonian skepticism are specific techniques or arguments used to cast doubt on any belief or claim, leading to the suspension of judgment.

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Philosophy and Ancient Medicine

Ancient medicine had strong philosophical underpinnings, with the rise of major medical schools like the Rationalist and Empiricist schools. The renowned physician Galen believed that a good doctor should also be a philosopher.

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Rationalist Medical School

The Rationalist medical school, influenced by Aristotle, focused on theoretical explanations for illnesses based on empirical observation.

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Empiricist Medical School

The Empiricist medical school, drawing inspiration from Pyrrhonian skepticism, rejected theoretical constructs and focused on practical treatment based on observed correlations between symptoms and treatments.

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Galen's Compromise: Reason & Experience

Galen, a prominent physician, advocated for a balanced approach, emphasizing that reason and experience should constantly inform and refine each other during medical practice.

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Skepticism and the Reformation

During the Reformation, Sextus Empiricus's arguments against a criterion of truth became relevant. Montaigne applied this skepticism to the religious debates of his time, arguing that the heated controversy over truth was ultimately futile.

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Hellenistic Period

A period in ancient history characterized by the spread of Greek culture and the merging of Eastern and Western influences, following the conquests of Alexander the Great.

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Ataraxia

Peace of mind; a state of freedom from worry and disturbance, often considered the ultimate goal in Hellenistic philosophy.

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Epicureanism

A school of Hellenistic philosophy founded by Epicurus, emphasizing the pursuit of pleasure as the ultimate good, and the importance of living a life of simplicity and moderation. The school was known as "The Garden." It was a popular movement for both men and women.

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Stoicism

A school of Hellenistic philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium, emphasizing virtue and the pursuit of reason, emphasizing that virtue is the only good and vice is the only evil. A central element in Stoicism is the importance of accepting events that are beyond our control.

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Pyrrhonian Skepticism

A school of Hellenistic philosophy skeptical of knowledge. "Knowledge is impossible." Founded by Pyrrho of Elis. Focused on the idea that we cannot know anything for certain. Pyrrho believed that by suspending judgement, we can achieve a state of tranquility.

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Kanôn

The basic principle of Epicurus's philosophy, it was essentially a yardstick for determining what is true. The kanôn consisted of two main components: sense-perception and prenotions (basic assumptions about the world).

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The Swerve

In Epicurean philosophy, this refers to the idea that atoms swerve randomly, interrupting their downward fall in the void. This swerve was considered essential for creating the diverse world we experience, as it leads to collisions and the formation of complex structures.

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Epicurean Void

In Epicurean philosophy, the void is defined as the infinite space in which atoms move. The void is essential for Epicurus's atomic theory because it allows for the movement and interaction of atoms.

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Cradle Argument

The natural inclination for pleasure and aversion to pain, inherent in all humans since birth.

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Static Pleasure

Pleasure achieved by the absence of pain and mental disturbance; a state of tranquility and freedom from worry.

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Epicurean View of Gods

The belief that the universe is governed by gods who are distant and uninterested in human affairs.

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Epicurean Definition of Death

The dispersion of atoms that compose the soul, leading to the end of consciousness.

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Natural and Necessary Pleasures

Pleasures that are natural and necessary for survival, like food and water.

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Disciplines of Epicurean Philosophy

The three main branches of Epicurean philosophy: epistemology (knowledge), physics (nature), and ethics (living well).

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Domains of Stoic Philosophy

The three main parts of Stoic philosophy: logic (reasoning), physics (nature), and ethics (virtue).

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Determinism in Stoicism

The Stoic doctrine that everything in the universe is predetermined by God, including human actions.

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Kataleptic Phantasia

The Stoic view that knowledge is derived from clear and reliable perceptions, shared by all rational beings.

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Stoic God (Logos)

The Stoic concept of the active, rational principle that pervades all matter and shapes the universe.

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Divine Providence

The Stoic belief that all events, including human actions, are part of a divine plan and occur in accordance with God's will.

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Stoic Virtues

The four key virtues of Stoic ethics - Wisdom, Justice, Courage, Moderation.

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Apatheia

The Stoic ideal of living a life free from emotional disturbance and guided by reason.

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Stoic Serenity

The Stoic practice of focusing on what we can control (our thoughts and actions) and accepting what we cannot.

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Study Notes

Hellenistic Philosophy

  • Hellenistic period marked the spread of Greek culture across the known world (oikumene) due to Alexander the Great.
  • This period witnessed the merging of Eastern and Western cultures.
  • The pursuit of a peaceful mind (ataraxia) and happiness was central to Hellenistic philosophy.
  • Major schools of thought emerged, including Epicureanism, Stoicism, and Pyrrhonian Skepticism.
  • These schools, primarily located in Athens, competed for students.
  • Founders presented "true paths to happiness," utilizing various methods of communication (letters, maxims, manuals) to reach a broader audience.

Pyrrhonian Skepticism

  • Pyrrho, a skeptical philosopher, met with naked ascetics in India, encountering early Buddhist thought.
  • Pyrrho did not write, but his teachings were documented.
  • Skepticism questioned the validity of knowledge derived from senses and opinions.
  • Pyrrho's thought (as reported by Aristocles):
    • How are things by nature? Neither opinions nor sensations reveal truth.
    • What attitude should we adopt? Do not trust them, remain uncertain.
    • What's the outcome? Speechlessness followed by freedom from disturbance (ataraxia).

Epicureanism

  • Epicurus, a student of atomists, established "The Garden," a school away from societal distractions, to combat anxiety. Women were welcome.
  • Epicurus' physics: Everything is composed of atoms and void. Atoms fall and swerve randomly, causing collisions and the formation of larger structures. Multiple cosmos exist.
  • Epistemology (Kanon):
    • Senses: Provide direct perception – sensory illusions are rushed judgments.
    • Preconceptions: Pre-existing knowledge.
    • Feelings: Pain is bad, pleasure is good. Natural pleasures (essential) are better than non-natural (e.g., excessive sex). The goal is static pleasure (absence of pain).
  • The key to Epicurus' philosophy is freedom from anxiety. This is achieved by confronting fears rationally:
    • Fear of the gods: Gods are indifferent to human affairs.
    • Fear of death: Death is the absence of sensation and, therefore, not bad.

Stoicism

  • Stoicism, founded by Zeno of Citium, stressed virtue and a rational life, inspired by Socrates and Cynics.
  • Stoicism divided philosophy into Logic, Physics (theology), and Ethics (the goal of happiness).
  • The primary focus was on ethics, seeing philosophy as a way of life.
  • Stoic epistemology: Philosophy articulates common, natural notions.
  • Phantasia: Sensory perception, not all are reliable. Some (kataleptic) are trustworthy & universal.
  • Stoic physics: Everything composed of passive matter and active God (logos = rational principle). The cosmos is divinely ordained and rationally structured, adhering to universal providence.
    • Humans share the logos (rationality) with God. The cosmos is a shared arena for rational beings.
  • Stoic ethics: The pursuit of virtue (wisdom, justice, courage, moderation) through reason. The only good is a virtuous life; everything else is indifferent. Emotions are judgments, aiming for apatheia (absence of emotion) through rational thought.

Neoplatonism

  • Neoplatonism (Plotinus) focused on the spiritual and mystical.
  • Plotinus's system outlined a hierarchy, culminating in "the One" (God), the ultimate source, transcending being.
  • Emanation: The One produces intellect, soul, and matter.
  • Perfection & Reversion: Each emanation strives to return to its source, seeking unity and perfection with the One.
  • The problem of evil: Evil is the absence of the good – matter lacks unity.
  • Key point about Plotinus: The One has no will, it's "pure activity" making the whole universe.

Skepticism

  • Skepticism, a response to dogmatism, questioned the possibility of certain knowledge. The Academy developed a skeptical phase after Plato.
  • Pyrrhonian skeptic, such as Aenesidemus and Sextus Empiricus, aimed to suspend judgment (epoché) as a path to tranquility.
  • Skeptics challenged the certainty of cognitive impressions. They concluded that suspension of judgement is necessary for peace of mind
  • Scepticism as a way of life, avoiding dogma, avoiding conflict.

Hellenistic Reception in other fields

  • Hellenistic philosophy influenced medicine: Rationalists (Aristotle's influence) and Empiricists (Pyrrhonian influence). Galen emphasized experience and reason.
  • Skepticism influenced later thinkers, including Montaigne during the Reformation, highlighting the limitations of finding truth through argument and dispute.

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Explore the profound ideas of Hellenistic philosophy, which flourished during the time of Alexander the Great. This quiz focuses on major schools of thought, including Epicureanism and Stoicism, and delves into the concepts of ataraxia and happiness. Understand the influence of Pyrrhonian Skepticism and its encounter with Eastern philosophies.

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