Parmenides (c. 515–450 BCE) Flashcards
Who was Parmenides?
A pre-Socratic Greek philosopher from Elea, known for his metaphysical ideas and the founder of the Eleatic school.
Where was Parmenides born?
Elea, a Greek colony in southern Italy.
What is Parmenides best known for?
His argument that reality is unchanging, singular, and eternal.
Which famous work did Parmenides write?
A philosophical poem called ‘On Nature.’
What are the two parts of Parmenides’ poem ‘On Nature’?
The Way of Truth and The Way of Opinion.
What does ‘The Way of Truth’ in Parmenides’ philosophy argue?
It argues that reality is one, unchanging, and eternal.
What does ‘The Way of Opinion’ critique?
It critiques sensory experiences that suggest change and multiplicity.
Who was Parmenides’ most famous student?
Zeno of Elea.
What philosophical idea did Parmenides directly oppose?
The idea of constant change, as proposed by philosophers like Heraclitus.
In which century did Parmenides live?
In the 5th century BCE.
Which school of philosophy did Parmenides found?
The Eleatic school.
How did Parmenides’ philosophy influence Plato?
It laid the groundwork for Plato’s theory of forms, emphasizing the distinction between the world of appearances and true reality.
What subject did Parmenides’ work influence for future generations?
Ontology, the study of being.
How did Aristotle respond to Parmenides’ ideas?
He critiqued them and developed his concept of potentiality and actuality as a response.
Which field is Parmenides often considered the father of?
Ontology.
