Thales is often regarded as the first philosopher in Western thought. He lived in the 6th century BCE and is known for his contributions to metaphysics, mathematics, and astronomy.
Though he is not directly connected to existentialism, his emphasis on rational inquiry, observation, and questioning the nature of reality laid important groundwork for later philosophical movements, including existentialism.
Impact on Existentialism
- Rational Inquiry over Myth: Thales was among the first to seek natural explanations for phenomena, moving away from mythological explanations. His shift toward using reason and observation to understand the world mirrors existentialism’s emphasis on questioning traditional structures and finding meaning through individual understanding.
- Focus on Fundamental Questions: Thales’ central question—”What is the fundamental substance of the universe?” (he posited it was water)—inspired a tradition of philosophical inquiry about the nature of existence. Existentialism, too, deals with fundamental questions about existence, such as the nature of being, freedom, and the meaning of life.
- Human Autonomy: Thales’ belief in human ability to understand and explain the universe connects indirectly with existentialism’s view of human autonomy, where individuals are seen as capable of shaping their own existence through choice and action.
Surviving Aspects of his Philosophy
- Naturalism: Thales’ idea that natural phenomena can be explained by observable, natural laws rather than by the whims of gods is a key aspect of modern philosophical and scientific inquiry. This approach survives today in the secular and empirical focus of much existential thought.
- The Search for an Arche: His concept of a primary substance or principle (arche) influencing all things endures in philosophical discussions about the fundamental nature of existence. While existentialists don’t focus on a physical substance, they similarly grapple with essential questions of what it means to exist and what grounds human experience.
Existence vs. Essence
Thales’ early focus on the essence of the universe (water) parallels the existential question of existence versus essence. Existentialists such as Sartre argue that existence precedes essence, meaning humans first exist and then create their own essence through actions. Thales’ work can be seen as an early inquiry into this idea by asking what essence the universe consists of.