My Philosophy Guru

Created by Mark Vernon

Source

In the ancient Greek world, philosophy was not just about thinking; it was more about living. The aim of the exercise was to live well, not just to think clearly.

This meant that philosophers like Plato and Epicurus were held in high regard as great teachers or gurus. People would come to Athens to sit at their feet and learn how to flourish as human individuals. Philosophy was a kind of therapy; philosophers often taught a kind of self-help.

During the fourth century BCE, six major varieties of philosophy emerged. They were known as schools, each with its own leader, character and answers to the big questions of life.

The following questionnaire is designed to reveal something of your own preferences, and so match you up to the individual who might suit you best as your philosophy-guru.