Immanuel Kant (1724-1804)
A central figure in modern philosophy, Kant's work addresses the limits of human understanding.
In his "Critique of Pure Reason," he argues that human experience is shaped by both sensory input and the mind's innate structures. Kant is also known for his moral philosophy, particularly the concept of the categorical imperative, which is a universal moral law derived from reason.
Confucius (551-479 BCE)
Confucius was a Chinese philosopher whose teachings have profoundly influenced East Asian life and thought.
His philosophy, known as Confucianism, emphasizes personal and governmental morality, the correctness of social relationships, justice, and sincerity. The "Analects" is a collection of his sayings and ideas.
Aristotle (384-322 BCE)
A student of Plato and tutor to Alexander the Great, Aristotle made significant contributions to many fields, including logic, metaphysics, biology, and ethics.
His work "Nicomachean Ethics" examines the nature of happiness and virtue, arguing that the highest good is a life of rational activity in accordance with virtue.
Plato (427-347 BCE)
A student of Socrates, Plato founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world.
His works, including "The Republic," explore justice, politics, and the ideal state. Plato's philosophy also includes the theory of Forms, which posits that non-material abstract forms represent the most accurate reality.
Socrates (469-399 BCE)
Socrates was an ancient Greek philosopher who is credited with laying the groundwork for Western philosophy.
He is best known for his method of questioning, now known as the Socratic method, which involves asking a series of questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas.