Aristotle's Metaphysics and Stoic Ideals: Exploring Greek Philosophical Perspectives
Aristotle's Metaphysics:
In his "Metaphysics," Aristotle proposes an eternal and immutable substance, the first mover, as the driving force behind the heavens and the natural world. This eternal substance moves without being moved, in an endless circular motion. This primal mover, according to Aristotle, stays unmoving and impassive, holding an eternal and unalterable essence separate from perceptible substances. Aristotle, emphasizing its divine nature, imparts perpetual life and self-sufficient actuality to this eternal essence, designating it God.
Aristotle's view of primary substances emphasizes their unique status as autonomous bearers of characteristics. They could exist in the absence of other objects, but not in the absence of attributes or qualities.
His teleological argument derives purpose from natural regularity, implying that non-coincidental evolution suggests a goal or purpose. However, modern scientific explanations frequently focus on mechanisms such as evolution and genetics rather than intrinsic aims in natural processes, calling Aristotle's theory into question.
Stoic Ideals:
The Stoics would most likely see the perfectly just person from Plato's "Republic" as reaching life's ultimate purpose by embodying virtue in the face of tremendous adversity. Stoicism emphasizes moral virtue as the only genuine good, arguing that one's morality and inner tranquillity are under one's control regardless of external circumstances.
Individuals' goals in life differ according to various philosophical ideas. Personal fulfillment, relationships, societal service, spiritual progress, and the quest of knowledge are all examples. Psychological research emphasizes the importance of meaningful connections, personal progress, and a feeling of purpose in promoting well-being.
Epicurus, who advocated for peace and escape from pain, argued that death should not be dreaded because it represents the lack of experience. His ideology intended to lessen unnecessary anxiety about death, despite the fact that people's perceptions of death differ widely due to their beliefs and cultural origins.
Epicurus would be favorable to modern medicinal remedies if they promote to tranquillity and ease mental suffering. Moderation and careful use, on the other hand, would most likely fit with his attitude in order to avoid reliance or negative impacts on general mental and physical health.
If everything is predetermined, there is no actual freedom or responsibility, according to the Stoic perspective on fate. Stoics can argue that, while external events are fated, our ability to choose our responses and exercise virtue is still within our power, emphasizing inner autonomy and moral agency within a framework of fate.
Sources:
Aristotle's Metaphysics
Selections from Aristotle's Metaphysics: Book XII, Part 7:Book XII, Part 7: Link
Aristotle, Metaphysics: Link
Ancient Philosophy: Aristotle and His Successors by University of Pennsylvania
Coursera: Link
Recommended reading:
For a more recent translation, considering purchasing T. Irwin and G. Fine Aristotle: Selections (Hackett, 1995). In this volume read pages 335-8.
Dr Michael Sugrue' YouTube Lectures:
Marcus Aurelius' Meditations: The Stoic Ideal: Link
Dr. Darren Staloff, Aristotle's Metaphysical Views: Link
