Developing a personal philosophy of life often involves exploring various ideas from great thinkers of the past. One concept that is frequently associated with Pythagoras’s philosophy, yet not always fully understood, is the idea of knowledge as remembrance. Understanding this concept is crucial, as it can significantly influence how we shape our own worldview. This article examines Pythagoras’s philosophy, the principle of knowledge as remembrance, and how these ideas remain relevant in the pursuit of a meaningful philosophy of life.
Key features of Pythagoras’s philosophy
Pythagoras, an ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, is best known for his contributions to mathematics, particularly the Pythagorean theorem. However, his philosophy extended far beyond numbers. He believed in the interconnectedness of all things and viewed the universe as ordered and harmonious. At the core of his teachings was the idea that numbers form the foundation of reality, with mathematical relationships governing the cosmos. Pythagoras also linked music to mathematics, showing how numerical ratios created harmonious sounds, a concept that influenced both science and the arts.
Ethics and spirituality were also significant aspects of his philosophy. Pythagoras advocated for a disciplined life, emphasizing self-control, purity, and the pursuit of knowledge. He believed in the immortality and transmigration of the soul, meaning that all beings are interconnected through a cycle of rebirth. This belief influenced his ideas about kindness toward all living creatures, including his promotion of vegetarianism.
Though much of what we know about Pythagoras comes through his followers, his ideas laid the groundwork for future scientific and philosophical thought. By combining mathematics, music, ethics, and spirituality, Pythagoras sought to understand the deeper truths of existence, inspiring generations of thinkers to explore the connections between science and the human experience.
What is knowledge as remembrance?
Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher, believed that knowledge is not something entirely new that we acquire, but rather something we already have within us. This idea is often referred to as “knowledge as remembrance.” According to this view, the soul is eternal and goes through many lifetimes. During these lifetimes, the soul gathers experiences and learns about the world. However, when a person is born, the knowledge the soul has gathered is not immediately accessible. Learning, therefore, is not about gaining new information but about remembering what the soul already knows.
Pythagoras saw the process of gaining knowledge as awakening memories hidden deep within us. He thought that through careful study, reflection, and training, individuals could “recall” truths that their souls had encountered before. This perspective places a strong emphasis on introspection and inner discovery. It explores the idea that there is a deeper connection between individuals and universal truths, which have been embedded within their souls over time. By this logic, knowledge becomes a process of reconnecting with these latent truths and bringing them back into one’s awareness.
This example helps to demonstrate this philosophical concept. Pythagoras believed that knowledge is not something newly acquired but rather something remembered from a time before our current existence. An example of this can be seen in the way a person might naturally grasp mathematical truths without having formal instruction. Imagine a child who intuitively understands that if they split a pie into two equal parts, each part represents half of the whole. Although the child might not yet know the precise terminology of fractions, they instinctively recognize the relationship between the parts and the whole. Pythagoras would argue that this understanding is not learned in the moment but instead remembered from a deeper, inherent knowledge. This kind of insight reflects his view that humans carry within them an eternal knowledge that simply needs to be brought to consciousness.
Challenges to Pythagoras’s view about knowledge as remembrance
Some philosophers object to Pythagoras’s view about knowledge as remembrance because it assumes certain ideas about how humans acquire knowledge that are not universally accepted. One key objection is that his perspective heavily relies on the notion of pre-existing knowledge or ideas before experience. Critics argue that this neglects the importance of sensory experience and learning in shaping what we know. Philosophers who favour empirical approaches, such as Aristotle or later thinkers like John Locke, often reject the idea of innate knowledge, insisting that all knowledge comes through experience and observation of the world. They contend that without engaging with the external environment, the mind would remain a blank slate.
Another reason for objection is the lack of concrete evidence to support the idea of knowledge being a form of remembrance. This perspective leans heavily on metaphysical concepts, which often take a leap of faith rather than being grounded in observable phenomena. Philosophers who prioritize reason and logical analysis over intangible theories argue that this view is speculative rather than practical. They believe that knowledge should be explained through rational methods that can be tested and debated, rather than relying on abstract principles that cannot be directly verified.
Additionally, some philosophers object to this view because it raises questions about personal development and responsibility. If knowledge is merely a process of remembering something innate or pre-existing, it might undermine the value of personal effort in acquiring wisdom and understanding. Critics emphasize the importance of skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and study, which contribute to learning and intellectual growth. By framing knowledge as something we recollect, Pythagoras’s view could potentially underappreciate the dynamic and active process of acquiring new knowledge through effort and interaction.
Finally, Pythagoras’s perspective can also be seen as overly idealistic, focusing on a perfect or fixed state of knowledge. Philosophers who see knowledge as constantly evolving argue that it is shaped by history, culture, and individual experience. They reject the notion that knowledge is static or fully knowable and instead advocate for a view that embraces the fluid and changing nature of learning. These objections illustrate the diverse ways philosophers approach the idea of how we know what we know, leading many to challenge the notion of knowledge as remembrance.
Why knowledge as remembrance is important to Pythagoras’s philosophy
These are some of the main reasons why grasping the concept of knowledge as remembrance is essential to comprehending Pythagoras’s philosophy.
- Encourages Reflection on the Nature of Learning
The idea of knowledge as remembrance highlights the importance of introspection and self-awareness in learning. It proposes that gaining knowledge is not about acquiring new information from outside sources, but rather about uncovering what is already within us. This perspective shifts the focus of learning from rote memorization or external achievements to a more personal and reflective process. By viewing knowledge in this way, learners may be inspired to engage in deeper contemplation and connect with their inner minds. This approach promotes a more holistic understanding of the self and fosters personal growth alongside intellectual development.
- Connects Human Understanding to Universal Truths
This philosophy suggests that knowledge is linked to a universal truth that exists beyond individual experiences. By framing the process of learning as remembering, it implies that humans share access to a greater, collective source of wisdom. This connection encourages the idea that understanding is not isolated but part of a larger, interconnected system. It provides a sense of unity and purpose, suggesting that humans are inherently tied to universal principles. Such a viewpoint can inspire individuals to seek not only personal insights but also a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it.
- Shifts Focus to the Immortal or Eternal Components of the Soul
The concept associates the process of acquiring knowledge with the soul’s eternal capabilities rather than the limitations of the physical body. This reinforces the idea that true understanding comes from an enduring part of our essence that exists beyond the temporal world. This perspective can make individuals consider their innate potential and the timeless nature of wisdom that transcends physical existence. It adds a spiritual dimension to the pursuit of knowledge, offering a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in intellectual endeavors.
Contrasting Pythagoras’s philosophy with John Locke’s philosophy
Pythagoras’s belief that knowledge is a form of remembrance stands in stark contrast to John Locke’s philosophy of knowledge. Locke, an influential thinker during the Enlightenment, argued that humans are born as blank slates, or “tabula rasa.” According to Locke, all knowledge is gained through experience and sensory perception, meaning individuals acquire understanding as they interact with the world. This view places a strong emphasis on learning as an ongoing process that depends on external influences and personal interactions with the environment.
On the other hand, Pythagoras’s idea assumes that knowledge is already within each individual, and learning is simply the act of recalling or uncovering truths that exist within the soul. This perspective suggests that the process of gaining knowledge does not rely on external experience but instead involves deep introspection or the awakening of innate understanding.
The key difference lies in the role of experience. For Locke, knowledge requires lived experiences and sensory data, emphasizing the external world as the source of all understanding. For Pythagoras, the external world is secondary, as knowledge exists internally and precedes experience. These opposing views reflect broader differences in their philosophical frameworks, with Locke focusing on empiricism and observation, while Pythagoras emphasizes introspection and metaphysical elements. Despite their differences, both thinkers significantly shaped intellectual traditions, leaving lasting impacts on how we view knowledge and learning.
Knowledge As Remembrance, Pythagoras’s philosophy and the philosophy of life
Reflecting on Pythagoras’s view of knowledge as remembrance, whether you agree with it or not, can significantly deepen your understanding of how we learn and grow as individuals. At its core, this reflection encourages us to question the origins of our knowledge, the ways we access it, and the meaning it holds in our lives. This process is not only an intellectual exercise but also a personal one that can help shape the foundation of your philosophy of life.
Considering such ideas encourages mindfulness about where your beliefs and values come from. It nudges you to think critically about what you accept as true and to explore the experiences and influences that have shaped your understanding of the world. This level of introspection can be empowering, allowing you to align your life choices more closely with your authentic self. Whether you view knowledge as something acquired externally or rediscovered internally, engaging with these ideas enables a more thoughtful approach to how you live.
Furthermore, reflecting on Pythagoras’s philosophy sharpens your ability to engage with abstract concepts—an essential skill as you build your personal philosophy. By grappling with challenging ideas, you develop mental flexibility and an openness to different perspectives. This mindset fosters growth, creativity, and resilience, all of which are vital in maintaining a balanced and meaningful life.
Ultimately, examining philosophical perspectives like that of Pythagoras adds depth to how you understand your place in the world. It connects you with traditions of thought that have inspired humanity for centuries. Regardless of whether you agree with Pythagoras, the practice of reflecting critically and thoughtfully on such philosophies can illuminate new paths in your own personal growth and understanding.
Further reading
Brumbaugh, R. S. (1978). The philosophers of Greece. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press.
Cornford, F. M. (1957). Plato’s theory of knowledge. London, UK: Routledge & Kegan Paul.
Guthrie, W. K. C. (1978). A history of Greek philosophy, Volume I: The earlier Presocratics and the Pythagoreans. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.
Huffman, C. A. (1993). Philolaus of Croton: Pythagorean and presocratic. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.
Kahn, C. H. (2001). Pythagoras and the Pythagoreans: A brief history. Indianapolis, IN: Hackett Publishing.
Kingsley, P. (1995). Ancient philosophy, mystery, and magic: Empedocles and Pythagorean tradition. Oxford, UK: Clarendon Press.
Riedweg, C. (2005). Pythagoras: His life, teaching, and influence (S. Rendall, Trans.). Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press.
Zhmud, L. (2012). Pythagoras and the early Pythagoreans. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.