Question

Greek thinkers in search of truth and knowledge were called philosophers, meaning "lovers of wisdom." How did the views of the French philosophes compare with those of Greek philosophers?

a) The French philosophes embraced religious dogma, while Greek philosophers rejected it.
b) The French philosophes focused on metaphysics, while Greek philosophers focused on ethics.
c) The French philosophes promoted reason and skepticism, similar to Greek philosophers.
d) The French philosophes rejected reason and embraced mysticism, in contrast to Greek philosophers.

Answer 1

The French philosophes, like the Greek philosophers, promoted reason and skepticism. However, the French thinkers were more practical and engaged with societal reforms. Correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

When comparing the views of the French philosophes with those of the Greek philosophers, we find several similarities as well as key differences. The Greek philosophers embarked on quests for knowledge through reason and logic, often contemplating the worldly and metaphysical without conducting empirical experiments.

Conversely, the French philosophes of the Enlightenment period strongly advocated for the use of reason and skepticism and were characterized by their critical approach towards societal norms, politics, and religion. They sought to apply reason for reform and progress within society, but unlike the ancient Greeks, the French philosophes lived in an era more accepting of empirical evidence and science.

The correct answer is c) The French philosophes promoted reason and skepticism, similar to Greek philosophers. Both sets of thinkers valued the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge through the use of reason. However, the French philosophes were more inclined towards practical applications of their ideas and active engagement with the political and social systems of their time.