What Is Phronesis? About This Greek Term

What Is Phronesis? About This Greek Term

PHRONESIS – In this topic, we are going to know and learn about the Greek term which is called Phronesis (φρόνησῐς,)

PHRONESIS

It is an ancient Greek word for a certain type of wisdom or intelligence. This type of wisdom is in line with practical action which implies both good judgement and excellence of character and habits.

It is referred to a  “practical virtue” and was a common topic of discussion in ancient Greek philosophy. The term is also usually translates to “practical wisdom“, and in some cases, “prudence” or “mindfulness

This wisdom word, is distinguished from other words for wisdom and intellectual virtues like episteme and techne.

Plato said that having this is the same as being a virtuous person. He implied that by thinking with phronēsis, the person has virtue and that all virtuousness is a form of it. This also allows a person to have moral or ethical strength.

Socrates, on the other hand, explains how this is the most important attribute to learn since this is a quality synonymous with moral understanding. However, this cannot be taught and is instead gained through the development of the understanding of one’s own self.

READ ALSO: What Is Arete? About This Greek Term

Leave a Comment