Ancient Greek Philosophy Today

Why engage with ancient Greek philosophy today? Can it still teach us anything today or is it outdated?  

Many contemporary thinkers believe that ancient philosophical theories are not just interesting museum pieces but tell us something important about our lives today and can both challenge our own views and provide inspiration in many fields of human thought.

Philosophers of science like Nancy Cartwright argue that Aristotelian metaphysics provides the best framework for thinking about contemporary physics. Ethicists like Martha Nussbaum think that Greek virtue ethics should inspire the way we think about what’s right and wrong today. And both philosophers and psychologists have been impressed by the ancient Greeks’ views about the good human life, human flourishing and peace of mind.  

So do ancient Greek philosophical ideas still merit engagement today after all? Four international experts will share their thoughts on why the answer should be Yes!