Timeline of Major Ethical Philosophies

By Meecahelyza
  • 469 BCE

    Socrates' Paradox

    Socrates' Paradox
    An individual will commit moral evil if he/she lacks moral understanding. Frequently, even though a person is fully aware of his /her actions and has full knowledge, he/she will still continue to commit wrong doings to further secret intentions.
  • Period: 469 BCE to 399 BCE

    Socrates

    Athenian philosopher.
    His views contrasted with the  state of Athenian politics and society.
    Since he was convicted of corrupting the youth and disbelieving in the gods, he was condemned to death with poison.
  • 428 BCE

    Plato

    Plato
    Plato questioned most people's perceptions of goodness, and that they may be horribly wrong in their attempts to live happy lives. Furthermore, Plato recognizes the value of virtue because, as he states, it is an impediment to living a happy life.
  • Period: 428 BCE to 348 BCE

    Plato

    Athenian Philosopher.
    Ranks among the world's greatest philosophers.
    Many scholars consider him to be the most influential philosopher in Western civilization.
  • 384 BCE

    Aristotle's The Golden Mean Principle

    Aristotle's The Golden Mean Principle
    For an individual to behave morally, he or she must find a middle ground between the two extremes of excess and deficiency.
  • Period: 384 BCE to 322 BCE

    Aristotle

    Greek philosopher.
    known as “The First Teacher" in Arabic Philosophy.
    known as “The Philosopher” in the West.

  • Thomas Hobbes' Moral Positivism

    Thomas Hobbes' Moral Positivism
    Hobbes recognizes the value of sticking by the laws enacted by those in positions of authority. Humans, he described, are self-centered creatures who will go to any length to better their status. As a result, they should refrain from making independent decisions and instead continue to follow the government's lead in order to keep the peace.
  • Period: to

    Thomas Hobbes

    English philosopher.
    One of the founding fathers of modern political philosophy.

  • Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart's Utilitarianism

    Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart's Utilitarianism
    Simply put, an action is considered correct if it tends to promote enjoyment or pleasure, and it is considered unacceptable if it tends to produce sadness or suffering. 
  • Period: to

    Jeremy Bentham

    English philosopher.
    He is recognized by being the father of modern utilitarianism.
  • Period: to

    John Stuart Mill

    Former Member of the United Kingdom Parliament.
    English philosopher.
    Also known as the "Father of Modern Utilitarianism".