Define Greek philosophy.

Greek philosophy refers to the intellectual tradition that emerged in ancient Greece, spanning from the 6th century BCE to the decline of the Hellenistic period. It encompasses a diverse range of philosophical schools, thinkers, and ideas that profoundly influenced Western thought. Greek philosophy is characterized by its systematic inquiry into fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and the nature of reality.

The pre-Socratic philosophers, such as Thales and Heraclitus, initiated the tradition by exploring the fundamental substance of the cosmos and the nature of change. Socratic philosophy, as exemplified by Socrates and developed by his disciples like Plato, emphasized ethical inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge through dialogues.

Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum represent major centers of philosophical activity in classical Greece. Plato delved into metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics, while Aristotle made foundational contributions to logic, natural philosophy, and ethics.

Greek philosophy laid the groundwork for various schools, including the Stoics, Epicureans, and Skeptics, during the Hellenistic period. Its enduring impact is evident in the works of later philosophers and the shaping of subsequent intellectual traditions, making Greek philosophy a cornerstone of Western philosophical thought.