I have a curious mind. I love learning and exploring all avenues of knowledge beyond school and university. Revisiting a few subjects at my older age showed me how differently I understand them now, like reading your favourite book a few years later and seeing it in a whole new light. It is rather surprising!
My latest craze was a dive into world philosophies, trying to figure out how generational thoughts shape our reality today. It is absolutely fascinating to realise that much of our 'knowledge' comes from bright thinkers of the past. These guiding thoughts, born out of different cultures and civilisations, have left a lasting impact on human society, shaping everything from moral beliefs to governance structures. Here are some of the most influential philosophies that continue to influence humanity today.
- Ancient Greek Philosophy: The works of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the groundwork for Western thought. Socratic questioning encouraged critical thinking, while Plato's idea of a perfect society and Aristotle's exploration of ethics and politics shaped the foundation of modern science, logic, and democratic ideals. Their emphasis on reason and virtue continues to guide modern education and political systems.
- Confucianism: In China, Confucius' teachings emphasised morality, social harmony, and respect for hierarchy. His ideas about filial piety and the importance of relationships have influenced East Asian societies for centuries, contributing to cultural norms around family, education, and governance. Confucian values still influence how communities are structured in countries like China, Korea, and Japan.
- Socialism and Marxism: Developed in the 19th century by thinkers like Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, socialism and Marxism criticised the economic inequalities brought about by capitalism. Marx's theory of class struggle and the call for a proletariat revolution aimed at creating a classless society deeply influenced political movements across the globe. Marxism argued that economic forces shape society, and it pushed for the redistribution of wealth and the collective ownership of the means of production. While its implementation has been contentious, its ideals have shaped socialist governments, labour rights movements, and discussions on wealth inequality.
- Capitalism: Capitalism, the dominant economic system of the modern world, is based on private ownership and the free market. Its roots can be traced back to thinkers like Adam Smith, who argued that individuals acting in their self-interest would ultimately benefit society through the "invisible hand" of the market. Capitalism promotes innovation, competition, and economic growth but has also been criticised for creating vast inequalities and prioritising profit over social welfare. It has shaped global economies, driving technological advancements and global trade, but also raising concerns about environmental sustainability and workers' rights.
- Indian Philosophy and Hinduism: Indian philosophies, such as those found in the Vedas and the Upanishads, explore concepts like karma, dharma, and moksha (liberation). These ideas have shaped the spiritual practices of millions, encouraging self-reflection and understanding the interconnectedness of life. The principles of non-violence (ahimsa) and tolerance, promoted by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, have also played a significant role in shaping modern social movements and global peace efforts.
- Existentialism: Emerging in the 19th and 20th centuries, existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche focused on individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in an often indifferent or absurd universe. Their emphasis on personal responsibility and authenticity resonates in today's discussions of identity, mental health, and self-empowerment.
- Enlightenment Thinking: The Enlightenment era, with thinkers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant, championed reason, liberty, and equality. Their ideals fueled revolutions, both in politics and science, advocating for human rights, democracy, and the separation of church and state. These ideas continue to underpin modern legal systems and democratic institutions.
These diverse philosophies provide frameworks for understanding human existence, ethics, and society. By reflecting on their lessons, humanity can continue to evolve toward a more thoughtful, compassionate, and just world.
And as I reread some of the philosophical writings, I find myself wondering how we have all this knowledge available, yet our societies overall haven’t been able to display the wisdom. I guess humanity, as well as philosophy, is a work in progress ??
