Introduction to Presocratics - A Thematic Approach to Early Greek Philosophy with Key Readings

Introduction to Presocratics presents a succinct introduction to Greek thinkers of the 6th and 5th century BCE and a thematic exploration of the topics and enquiries opened by these first philosophers and scientists of the Western tradition.§Offers a concise, thematically organized introduction to the Presocratics§Includes a previously unpublished translation of the main fragments of the Presocratics by Classics scholar Rosemary Wright§Covers key figures including Thales, Anaximander and Anaximenes of Miletus, Xenophanes, Heraclitus, Pythagoras, Parmenides and Zeno of Elea, Empedocles, Anaxagoras and Democritus§Supplemented with helpful features including a timeline, map of the ancient world, glossary of terms, and index of proper namesDespite what is commonly taught, Western philosophy did not begin with Socrates. The roots of Western philosophy and science, in fact, run much deeper than this watershed philosophical figure -- to a series of innovative Greek thinkers of the 6th and 5th century BCE. Introduction to Presocratics presents a succinct introduction to early Greek thought by following a thematic exposition of the topics and enquiries explored by the first philosophers of the Western tradition. Ionian figures such as Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes, Xenophanes, Heraclitus, and Pythagoras are covered; Eleatics such as Parmenides and Zeno; Pluralists or Neo-Ionians such as Empedocles, Anaxagoras and Democritus. Key areas of Presocratic philosophy are addressed, including principles, cosmos, being, soul, knowledge, and ethics. A brief account of the legacy and reception of the Presocratics in later philosophical traditions is also included. Also featured is an original translation of the main Presocratic fragments by renowned Classics Professor Rosemary Wright. Introduction to Presocratics offers illuminating insights into the true pioneers of philosophical thought in the Western tradition.