The Ethical Theory of Xenophanes of Colophon
Abstract
This article examines the philosophical and ethical contributions of Xenophanes of Colophon, a pre-Socratic thinker who founded the Eleatic School. The author explores Xenophanes' radical critique of traditional Greek theology, specifically his opposition to the anthropomorphic portrayal of gods by Homer and Hesiod. Xenophanes introduced an early form of monotheism, proposing a single, non-human deity that is eternal, immobile, and perceives the universe through thought alone. Beyond theology, the paper analyzes his epistemological views, noting his belief that human knowledge is limited and subjective compared to divine truth, though progress is possible through persistent inquiry. As an ethical philosopher, Xenophanes is presented as a critic of social decadence and a proponent of wisdom over physical strength. Finally, the text traces his influence on subsequent philosophers like Parmenides, Heraclitus, and Zeno, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of abstract theoretical thought.
Article Details
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Tseroni , A. (2020). The Ethical Theory of Xenophanes of Colophon . Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (2), 41–47. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.22647
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- No. 2 (2006)
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- Articles
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