We have always tried to understand the world around us with perspective and thought. We evolve in the way we live, in the way we think, and in the way we communicate. While there were ideas that we were asked to follow blindly, there were also thoughts that have been inspiring humans for generations. This search for a better understanding of the idea of existence is what defines the core of philosophy. There are numerous times in a day when we stop for a minute and think to ourselves, “why am I doing this?”, “Is this really making me happy?”, “Am I doing something worthwhile?” This is what philosophy stands for—the idea of questioning everything and engaging in thoughts that eventually change the way we live. Be it life, morality, human nature, or knowledge, we have always attempted to find answers to our questions using reason and logic, and the people who have been successful in doing so are considered the greatest philosophers of all time.
Let us take you through the teachings of five such philosophers who revolutionised the way we look at life.
Noam Chomsky
Renowned linguist Noam Chomsky once proposed an idea that shook the world: “We are all born with an innate knowledge of grammar that serves as the basis for all language acquisition.” Chomsky believed that language was a human cognitive capacity, like walking. That would mean that humans are born with a basic instinct towards language. He believed that humans were born with a basic understanding of language, which doesn’t come to light unless guided properly. While this was criticised back then, recent studies have shown that Chomsky was right.
Epicurus
Epicureanism as known today is the school of philosophy established based on the teachings of the Greek philosopher Epicurus around 307 BC. One of the greatest philosophers of all time, Epicurus preached that the state of tranquillity could be found in the simpler pleasures of life and through gaining knowledge on the workings of the world and limiting desires. A modest way of living was the way to true happiness. He taught us that pleasure could be obtained through knowledge, friendship, and imbibing important virtues of life.
Noam Chomsky is a renowned linguist, cognitive scientist, and philosopher. His most significant contribution to linguistics is the theory of Universal Grammar, which suggests that humans are born with an innate knowledge of grammar that forms the basis for language acquisition.
Epicureanism is a philosophical school of thought founded by the Greek philosopher Epicurus. It emphasizes finding happiness and tranquility in life through simple pleasures, gaining knowledge, and limiting desires.
Confucius was a highly influential Chinese philosopher whose teachings laid the foundation for Confucianism, a major school of thought in Chinese philosophy. His ideas, centered around love, respect, self-discipline, and harmony, greatly influenced Chinese culture and societal values.
Some of his key teachings included the concept of self-realization, the power of positive thinking, and the promotion of a strong character.
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