We’ve learned a lot through out three-part history of philosophy graphic series. What started out as a look at the traditional western trajectory of philosophy, starting with the pre-socratics and ending with current western philosophical traditions ended up needing some augmentation.
We next looked to eastern philosophy, which has roots set much earlier than philosophy in the west. Before 2000 BC, Sumerians and those living in what is now India were already laying the groundwork for modern science, weaving wisdom texts into ethical systems, and above all being lovers of knowledge.
This most recent graphic on the history of philosophy also attempts to remedy the lack of representation of women philosophers in previous graphics. While it wasn’t easy for many to be philosophers in the ancient world, at many points it was even harder for women to obtain learning and be allowed entry into the realm of public intellectual discourse. At other points it was not, such as in ancient India, where–before European influence–women were afforded access to the same religious training and learning opportunities as men. Or in ancient Sumer, where priestesses held some of the most important positions in government and learning.
There are a thousand stories intertwined in the lives of those on our graphic, many of which are worth any scholar or inquisitive soul’s time to study. We hope you enjoy exploring our comprehensive history of philosophy infographic.
