...{W}hat is remarkable about the Greeks--even pre-philosophically--is that despite the salience of religious rituals in their lives, when it came to the question of what it is that makes an individual human life worth living they didn't look to the immortals but rather approached the question in mortal terms. Their approaching the question of human mattering in human terms is the singularity that creates the conditions for philosophy in ancient Greece, most especially as these conditions were realized in the city-state of Athens.
In ancient Greece, despite the importance of religious rituals, individuals sought the meaning of life not through divine beings but through their own human experiences. This unique approach emphasized mortal perspectives on what makes life valuable, setting the stage for philosophical inquiry. The Greeks, particularly in Athens, prioritized human-centered questions, leading to a rich exploration of life's significance.
This focus on human concerns over divine dictates marked a crucial shift in thought, allowing for the emergence of philosophy in the ancient world. It encouraged a communal and introspective examination of existence, influencing how individuals engaged with their lives and the world around them. This perspective remains foundational in understanding the development of Western philosophy.
