The Peripatetics, also known as the Aristotelian School, were a group of philosophers who followed the teachings of Aristotle. This ancient school of thought brought forth significant contributions to various fields, including ethics, politics, metaphysics, and more. In this article, we will delve into the history and philosophy of the Peripatetics, exploring who they were and what they believed.

Who were the Peripatetics?

The Peripatetics were followers and students of Aristotle, the renowned Greek philosopher, who lived during the 4th century BCE. The name “Peripatetic” derives from the Greek word “peripatos,” meaning “walking about” or “strolling,” as Aristotle was known to give his lectures while walking with his students in the Lyceum of Athens.

Aristotle’s teachings formed the foundation of Peripatetic philosophy, with his disciples carrying on his legacy after his death. Prominent figures among the Peripatetics include Theophrastus, Eudemus of Rhodes, and Strato of Lampsacus, all of whom made significant contributions to Aristotelian thought.

What did the Peripatetics believe?

The Peripatetics embraced Aristotle’s philosophical framework, building upon his concepts and principles. They believed in the pursuit of knowledge through observation and rational inquiry, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence to support theories and arguments.

The Peripatetic philosophy encompassed a wide range of subjects, covering metaphysics, ethics, logic, politics, natural science, and more. They aimed to understand the nature of existence, the purpose of human life, and the principles governing the natural world.

Metaphysics and Epistemology

In terms of metaphysics, the Peripatetics upheld Aristotle’s views on causality and the existence of a prime mover or “unmoved mover” as the ultimate cause of all motion and change in the universe.

Epistemologically, they stressed the importance of direct observation and experience as the basis for acquiring knowledge. They emphasized the significance of sense perception and induction to form general principles and concepts.

Ethics and Politics

The Peripatetics placed great emphasis on ethics and the pursuit of virtue. They believed that the ultimate goal of human life was to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as “flourishing” or “well-being.” Virtue, according to the Peripatetics, was the key to attaining eudaimonia and living a morally commendable life.

In the realm of politics, the Peripatetics advocated for the development of virtuous leaders who would govern the state with wisdom and justice. They believed that a well-ordered society would contribute to the happiness and well-being of its citizens.

Contributions and Influence

The Peripatetic philosophy had a profound impact on subsequent philosophical traditions. Their emphasis on empirical observation and logical reasoning laid the groundwork for scientific inquiry and the study of natural phenomena.

Furthermore, their teachings greatly influenced Islamic and medieval European philosophy during the Middle Ages, with the works of Aristotle, transmitted through the Peripatetics, serving as fundamental references for scholars and thinkers across various cultures.

  • The Peripatetics were instrumental in refining and systematizing Aristotelian thought, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
  • Their focus on ethics and virtues had a lasting impact on moral philosophy.
  • Peripatetic principles played a crucial role in the development of the scientific method as we know it today.

In conclusion, the Peripatetics were an influential school of thought that expanded upon Aristotle’s philosophy, leaving a lasting legacy in various disciplines. Their commitment to logical reasoning, empirical observation, ethics, and politics shaped the course of Western philosophy and scientific inquiry for centuries to come.

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