Single Idea 7478

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 1. Nature]

Full Idea

Greek philosophers may have invented the concept of 'nature' to underline their superiority over poets and religious leaders.

Gist of Idea

Greek philosophers invented the concept of 'nature' as their special subject

Source

Peter Watson (Ideas [2005], Ch.06)

Book Reference

Watson,Peter: 'Ideas: from fire to Freud' [Phoenix 2006], p.179


A Reaction

Brilliant. They certainly wrote a lot of books entitled 'Peri Physis' (Concerning Nature), and it was the target of their expertise. A highly significant development, along with their rational methods. Presumably Socrates extends nature to include ethics.