Final answer:
Classical Greek and Indian philosophies share the view that philosophy is not just theoretical, but a practical way of life, and both engage in metaphysical discussions. They differ in their emphasis on political philosophy and their conceptualization of the golden mean and deities.
Step-by-step explanation:
When examining the similarities between classical Greek and Indian philosophies, we find that both traditions not only engaged in rigorous metaphysical discussions but also viewed philosophy as a practical endeavor integral to a way of life. Neither tradition can be said to have been devoid of metaphysical discussions; instead, these discussions were central to their philosophical inquiries. Furthermore, while classical Greek philosophy included a variety of political philosophies, it is not accurate to say that both traditions extensively focused on political philosophy. The Indian tradition placed less emphasis on political structures compared to the Greeks who actively analyzed political ethics and institutions.
Both Greek and Indian philosophies share the characteristic of being extensive and rich in their exploration of ethics, the nature of existence, and the best ways to live. However, the notion of the golden mean, while central to Aristotle's ethical theory in the Greek tradition, does not have a direct parallel in classical Indian philosophy, which featured its unique concepts like dharma and karma. Additionally, although both Greek and Indian cultures had polytheistic elements, classical Indian philosophy is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, which involve a complex understanding of deities, unlike the anthropomorphic gods of the classical Greek pantheon.