quotes

All nature is composed of…

Four basic elements — Earth, Water, Air, and Fire (Empedocles). Everything in nature is made from these fundamental substances.

Nature consists of tiny blocks that…

Combine in different ways to form everything (Democritus' atoms). Everything is made of invisible, indivisible particles called atoms.

He is wisest who…

Knows that he knows nothing (Socrates). Highlights the importance of humility and continuous questioning in learning.

Women are…

Incomplete versions of men (Aristotle). Aristotle believed women were lesser or incomplete males in a natural hierarchy.

I think…

Therefore I am (Descartes). Self-awareness is proof of existence; foundational statement in philosophy.

Ideas vs….

Matter — the world of physical things (Plato). Distinguishes eternal perfect ideas (Forms) from imperfect material world.

The myth of the cave dweller illustrates that…

People mistake shadows (illusions) for reality; true knowledge is seeing beyond appearances (Plato).

One cannot rely on his/her senses because…

Senses deceive us and only show shadows of the true forms (Plato). The physical world is an imperfect reflection of Forms.

Everything is made after a timeless mold or form that is…

Perfect and eternal (Plato's Forms). All physical things copy perfect, eternal Forms.

We should seek pleasure but weigh…

The consequences of pleasure and pain carefully (Epicureans). True pleasure comes from avoiding pain and living modestly.

Through…

Knowledge and friendship, we can live a healthy and happy life (Epicureans). Wisdom and close relationships are keys to happiness.

True happiness is not found in…

Material things; we should live a life of frugality and self-control (Stoics). Happiness comes from inner virtue, not possessions.

Man must accept his destiny, even sickness and death, as…

An inevitable part of nature (Stoics). Acceptance of fate and focus on what’s controllable.