The examination of metaphysical concerns is one of the principal orientations of philosophers of all times, which is complicated by differences in their approaches. Moreover, these initiatives tend to evolve with regard to preferences or vary depending on their focus. From this perspective, their examination through the lens of Pre-Socratic thinkers, sophists, Socrates, and contemporary views on the subjects is beneficial for their better understanding.
Pre-Socratic philosophers attempted to explain the nature of reality and the origin of life through materialism and spiritualism. To do so, they referred to either the four elements in the former case or the supernatural or religious underpinnings of all processes in the latter situation (Fieser). Meanwhile, the Sophists’ metaphysical views on the matter also differed from those of Socrates. They considered these topics through the lens of varying beliefs, whereas the latter emphasized the moral aspect, which seemed to him more significant (Keller). These standpoints are still used by contemporary thinkers when examining metaphysical issues.
For instance, one of the trending topics of this nature is the scope of the free will of present-day people and, more particularly, the responsibility of criminals in their activity. For Socrates, it would be determined as limited by one’s morality, and Sophists would likely examine it as a difference in perspectives (Payne). In turn, Pre-Socratics might see it as a problem of God’s providence. Hence, the historical context matters when approaching similar complex subjects.
In conclusion, the thinkers of all times adopted varying approaches to evaluating the importance of societal processes, which included materialism and spiritualism, belief systems, or the emphasis on morality. The consideration of issues from these perspectives might provide varying results. Thus, criminal activity, as an example, can be seen as limited by one’s convictions, morals, or religious views, which affect the outcomes of individual actions.
Works Cited
Fieser, James. “1: Presocratic philosophy.” UT Martin, 2020, Web.
Keller, James. “Socrates: A Sophist?” Harrison Middleton University, 2018, Web.
Payne, Russ. W. “1.2: Metaphysics.” Humanities LibreTexts, 2021, Web.