Ten Highly Regarded Philosophers

Founder of Western philosophy; advocated for a world of ideal Forms separate from the physical world. Emphasized the importance of reason and virtue in governance.

Emphasized empirical observation and logic. Developed theories on ethics, politics, and metaphysics. Known for his work on virtue ethics and the concept of the "golden mean."

Developed the concept of the "Categorical Imperative" in ethics. Argued for a priori knowledge and the limits of human understanding in his "Critique of Pure Reason."

Critiqued traditional morality and religion. Introduced concepts like "will to power" and "eternal recurrence." Emphasized individual creativity and self-overcoming.

Focused on ethics, proper social relationships, and good governance. Emphasized virtues like benevolence, righteousness, and filial piety.

Father of modern Western philosophy. Known for "I think, therefore I am." Advocated rationalism and mind-body dualism.

Key figure in empiricism and social contract theory. Influenced modern concepts of individual rights and limited government.

Pioneering feminist philosopher. Explored existentialism and ethics, particularly regarding women's experiences and oppression.

Analyzed the relationship between language, meaning, and reality. Influential in both analytic and continental philosophy traditions.

Major figure in existentialism. Emphasized individual freedom, responsibility, and the human condition in a godless universe.

Or, you can go with this simple meaning of life...