Philosophers: meaning, definitions and examples
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philosophers
[fɪˈlɒsəfəz ]
Definition
study of existence
Philosophers are individuals who seek to understand the fundamental nature of reality and existence. They explore questions about knowledge, ethics, existence, and the nature of reality. Philosophers use logic and reason to analyze and debate these fundamental questions.
Synonyms
intellectuals, scholars, thinkers.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| philosophers |
Used to describe people who study and write about fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, and reason. Typically used in discussions about deep, abstract subjects.
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| thinkers |
Broad term for people who contemplate or theorize about various topics. Can be used in a wide range of contexts, often outside formal academic settings.
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| scholars |
Focused on people who have deep knowledge in a particular subject, often historical or literature-related studies. Typically associated with higher education and research.
|
| intellectuals |
Describes people who engage in critical thinking, research, and reflection about society and who propose solutions for its normative problems. Often used in context with social issues, science, and the arts.
|
Examples of usage
- Many philosophers throughout history have pondered the meaning of life.
- Studying philosophy allows individuals to critically examine their beliefs and values.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'philosophos,' meaning 'lover of wisdom,' which reflects the goal of seeking knowledge.
- The term was first used by Pythagoras, who is known for his contributions to mathematics and philosophy.
- In ancient Greece, philosophers like Socrates and Plato shaped the foundation of Western thought.
Influential Works
- René Descartes' famous phrase 'Cogito, ergo sum' ('I think, therefore I am') highlights the connection between thinking and existence.
- Immanuel Kant’s work 'Critique of Pure Reason' challenges us to understand the limits and scope of human understanding.
- Friedrich Nietzsche's 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra' introduced concepts like the 'Übermensch' and eternal recurrence to explore morality and life.
Cultural Impact
- Philosophers have influenced art, literature, and politics throughout history, shaping ideas about freedom, ethics, and society.
- In Eastern traditions, thinkers like Confucius and Laozi have impacted cultural values and governance in various Asian societies.
- Modern philosophers continue to engage with contemporary issues like technology and ethics, driving conversations on morality in a digital age.
Branches of Philosophy
- Metaphysics studies the nature of reality, exploring questions about existence beyond the physical realm.
- Ethics looks at what is right or wrong, helping guide human behavior and moral dilemmas.
- Epistemology investigates knowledge itself, asking how we know what we know and the validity of our beliefs.
Philosophers in Pop Culture
- Philosophy has seeped into popular films, with movies like 'The Matrix' raising questions about reality and existence.
- Characters like Socrates and Nietzsche have appeared in various forms of media, from books to video games, making philosophy relatable.
- Comedy shows often weave in philosophical concepts, using humor to explore serious ideas, like in 'The Good Place'.
Translations
Translations of the word "philosophers" in other languages:
🇵🇹 filósofos
🇮🇳 दार्शनिकों (darshanikon)
🇩🇪 Philosophen
🇮🇩 filsuf
🇺🇦 філософи
🇵🇱 filozofowie
🇯🇵 哲学者 (tetsugakusha)
🇫🇷 philosophes
🇪🇸 filósofos
🇹🇷 filozoflar
🇰🇷 철학자들 (cheolhakjadeul)
🇸🇦 فلاسفة (falasifa)
🇨🇿 filozofové
🇸🇰 filozofi
🇨🇳 哲学家 (zhéxuéjiā)
🇸🇮 filozofi
🇮🇸 heimspekingar
🇰🇿 философтар (filosofter)
🇬🇪 ფილოსოფოსები (pilosoposebi)
🇦🇿 filosoflar
🇲🇽 filósofos