Tag: ethics
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Opinions on Napoleon in Russian Literature
Napoleon Bonaparte, the towering figure of European history, left an indelible mark not only on politics and warfare but also on the cultural imagination of nations far beyond France. In Russian literature, Napoleon has often been a figure of fascination, criticism, and reflection. Russian authors explored his persona as a symbol of ambition, power, and…
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Key Ideas in the Works of Jean-Paul Sartre
Jean-Paul Sartre, one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century, is best known for his contributions to existentialism and phenomenology. His works span philosophy, literature, drama, and political theory, each reflecting his deep engagement with the questions of freedom, responsibility, and human existence. Sartre’s ideas challenge readers to confront the complexities of being…
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Key Ideas in Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra
Friedrich Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra is one of his most celebrated and enigmatic works. Written in a prophetic and poetic style, the book explores profound philosophical ideas through the character of Zarathustra, a sage who descends from his mountain retreat to share his teachings with humanity. In this ambitious work, Nietzsche critiques traditional morality, religion,…
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What is Mohism?
Mohism, founded by the Chinese philosopher Mozi (also known as Mo Tzu or Mo Di) during the Warring States period in ancient China, is a philosophical tradition that focuses on universal love, meritocratic governance, and practical ethics. As a significant counterpoint to Confucianism, Mohism challenges some traditional Chinese values, emphasizing egalitarianism, utility, and social order…
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Who Was Zarathustra?
Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, is the ancient prophet and founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. He is thought to have lived in the region of present-day Iran or Central Asia, likely between 1500 and 1000 BCE, although some historians place him as far back as 2000 BCE. Revered as a…
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Influential Philosophers from the Golden Age of Islam
The Golden Age of Islam, spanning roughly from the 8th to the 14th century, was a period of remarkable advancements in philosophy, science, medicine, and the arts across the Islamic world. This era produced a thriving intellectual environment, where scholars sought to reconcile faith with reason, integrating Greek philosophy with Islamic thought to create an…
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Soren Kierkegaard: The Father of Existentialism and His Profound Works
Søren Kierkegaard, a 19th-century Danish philosopher, theologian, and writer, is often regarded as the “father of existentialism.” His works, filled with passionate reflections on faith, individuality, freedom, and the nature of existence, continue to influence a wide array of fields, including philosophy, theology, literature, and psychology. Through a style that combined parables, pseudonymous characters, and…
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The Origins of Western Thought: An Introduction to Presocratic Greek Philosophy
Long before Socrates questioned Athenians in the Agora, a group of early Greek thinkers, known as the Presocratics, laid the foundation for Western philosophy. These early philosophers emerged from various regions of the Greek world in the 6th and 5th centuries BCE and were united by their desire to understand the universe through reason and…
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Petrarch: The Father of Humanism and the Revival of Classical Wisdom
Francesco Petrarch (1304–1374), an Italian scholar, poet, and one of the earliest Renaissance humanists, is often celebrated as the “Father of Humanism.” His works and ideas are foundational to the Renaissance, marking a departure from medieval scholasticism and sparking a new focus on classical antiquity and human experience. Best known for his poetry and prose,…
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Exploring the Works of Plutarch: A Timeless Legacy in Morality, History, and Philosophy
Plutarch, a Greek writer, philosopher, and biographer of the 1st century AD, is celebrated for his timeless contributions to literature and philosophy. His works, especially the Parallel Lives and Moralia, offer invaluable insight into the lives of ancient figures and tackle ethical, philosophical, and practical issues that resonate to this day. Through Plutarch’s unique approach…
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