Psychology’s roots have been attributed to the early Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. The emergence of scientific thought began through the writings and teachings of Christian church scholars. One of the movements was based on Scholasticism, which was the attempt to bring theological thought to human reasoning. Thomas Aquinas was considered one of the major contributors to this school of thought. As we move through our studies in this course it is apparent that the major contributors to psychology stem from not only Classical Greek philosophy but a strong Western European Christian philosophy as well.
What is the importance of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle in understanding the foundations of psychology? Describe the similarities and differences among these three philosophers and how their philosophies compare and contrast with the philosophies of others, such as the Sophists.
How did early Christian scholars like Thomas Aquinas synthesize the Greek philosophy with Christian theological perspectives? What impact did Aquinas’ writings have on future philosophical thinking?
Why would it be important to expand our historical perspectives on psychology to include philosophical points of view from Eastern and Mid-Eastern cultures, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism?
