

HoP 007 - The Road Less Traveled - Parmenides
111 snips Nov 15, 2010
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Metaphysics Defined
- Metaphysics studies existence and fundamental philosophical problems like the existence of God or the soul.
- Parmenides is considered the father of metaphysics, with his focus on the study of being.
Metaphysical Precursors
- Xenophanes' criticism of traditional Greek gods shows metaphysical ideas.
- Some ancients considered Xenophanes Parmenides' teacher, though this is uncertain.
Parmenides and Socrates
- Plato depicts a meeting between an older Parmenides and young Socrates, suggesting Parmenides' fifth-century activity.
- This encounter's historical accuracy is questionable.