Pythagoreanism

Definition

Pythagoreanism is a philosophical and religious system founded by Pythagoras in the 6th century BCE that emphasizes the importance of numbers and their relationships in understanding the universe. This belief system intertwines mathematics, cosmology, ethics, and metaphysics, asserting that reality can be explained through numerical relationships and that the study of mathematics leads to spiritual enlightenment. Pythagoreanism influenced many aspects of Western philosophy and science, laying the groundwork for later developments in mathematics and philosophy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pythagoreanism teaches that all things are related to numbers, which are seen as the essence of all forms and structures in the universe.
2. The Pythagoreans believed in the transmigration of souls, meaning they thought souls could be reborn into different bodies, emphasizing a cycle of learning through different lives.
3. They developed a unique form of community living where followers lived according to strict rules, focusing on mathematics, philosophy, and moral conduct.
4. Music was a crucial aspect of Pythagoreanism; they believed that musical harmony reflects mathematical ratios, which connects sound with cosmic order.
5. Pythagoreanism also promoted a lifestyle based on purity and discipline, advocating vegetarianism and a rigorous moral code among its followers.

Review Questions

• How did Pythagoreanism influence early Western thought regarding mathematics and spirituality?
  • Pythagoreanism significantly shaped early Western thought by intertwining mathematics with spirituality. The belief that numerical relationships govern the universe encouraged thinkers to explore mathematical concepts not just as abstract ideas but as pathways to understanding deeper truths about existence. This fusion led to advancements in mathematics while also promoting a philosophical framework that viewed numbers as having intrinsic meanings related to the cosmos.
• In what ways did the Pythagorean view of harmony relate to their understanding of the universe?
  • The Pythagoreans viewed harmony as a reflection of mathematical ratios that govern both music and the cosmos. They believed that just as musical notes can be harmonized through specific numerical relationships, so too can the universe be understood through similar principles. This perspective linked their study of music to cosmology, suggesting that by understanding harmony in sound, one could gain insight into the underlying order of the universe.
• Critically evaluate how Pythagoreanism's emphasis on numbers might impact contemporary philosophical or scientific thought.
  • The emphasis on numbers in Pythagoreanism raises intriguing questions about the nature of reality and our understanding of it in contemporary thought. By asserting that numbers are fundamental to all existence, it invites further exploration into how mathematical frameworks shape modern scientific theories. This perspective can lead to critical discussions about whether mathematics is merely a tool we use to describe reality or if it holds a deeper significance as an inherent aspect of existence itself, influencing everything from quantum physics to philosophical inquiries about consciousness.

Related terms

Numerology: A belief in the mystical significance of numbers and their influence on human life, often used in Pythagorean thought to derive meaning from numerical relationships.

Harmony: The concept that mathematical ratios and proportions create a sense of order and beauty in the universe, central to Pythagorean teachings about music and cosmology.

Metaphysics: A branch of philosophy that explores the fundamental nature of reality, existence, and the relationship between mind and matter, significantly influenced by Pythagorean ideas about numbers and forms.