test The Philosophy of Mediation Procedures in Ancient Greece|Dia-noesis: A Journal of Philosophy

The Philosophy of Mediation Procedures in Ancient Greece

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Published: Nov 23, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/dia.43455
Keywords:
Ancient Greece mediation processes private and public arbitration Demosthenes Isaeus Aristotle philosophy of mediation social cohesion
Alexandros Koliopoulos
Ph.D. Candidate, University of Western Macedonia
Panagiotis Giannopoulos
Professor, Law School, Democritean University of Thrace
Abstract

This study examines the historical development of mediating mechanisms for dispute resolution in Ancient Greece, starting from ancient Greek myths and Homer's epics to the implementation of the first mediating procedures in practice. It explores not only the institutional and practical application of these methods—such as the arbitrators in Athens or inter-state arbitrations—but, above all, the philosophical background that legitimized them and made them effective. A philosophical background that is, on the one hand, similar to todays, since the constituent elements of mediation remain largely the same, but on the other hand, so different, since the criterion for selecting the person called upon to conduct the mediation process was his prestige, their character, and their position in the state, rather than their appointment under relevant legislation. Particular attention is given to the works of Demosthenes, Isaeus, and Aristotle, which reveal not only the legal and procedural aspects of early processes resembling mediation, but also their ethical background, leading us to conclude that ancient Greek mediation procedures were based on a strong ethical philosophy whose ultimate goal was to preserve social peace and the prosperity of the city.

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LEGISLATION / WEBSITES
Law 4640/2019. Mediation in civil and commercial matters. Further harmonization of Greek legislation with the provisions of Directive 2008/52/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 and other provisions. (Government Gazette A/190/30-11-2019). (last visited Oct. 2025)
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Mediation. Solution of Civilization (n.d.) Ministry of Justice https://www.diamesolavisi.gov.gr/selida/oi-istorikes-rizes-tis-diamesolavisis-stin-ellada (Retrieved October 2025).