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Ancient Philosophy — Reading Comprehension

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This reading passage takes students on a journey through the philosophical traditions of ancient Greece, India, and China, highlighting the lives and ideas of influential thinkers such as Socrates, Confucius, and the Buddha. Students will discover how these philosophers addressed questions about ethics, government, and the meaning of life. The text analyzes primary sources, shows cause-and-effect relationships, and compares different philosophical traditions. Activities include comprehension questions, explanatory writing, graphic organizers, and a timeline. The passage is aligned to CA HSS 6.4, 6.6, 6.23 and CCSS RH.6-8.1, making it ideal for world history studies. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are included, supporting diverse learners and meeting key ELA and social studies standards.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Plato and Aristotle in The School of Athens, by italian Rafael, Wikimedia Commons

Philosophy began in ancient civilizations as people searched for answers to life's biggest questions. In Greece, India, and China, philosophers developed ideas that shaped societies. Their teachings still influence our world today.

In ancient Greece, philosophers such as Socrates (470–399 BCE), Plato, and Aristotle explored topics like ethics, government, and knowledge. Socrates challenged people to question their beliefs through dialogue. He was known for asking, “What is justice?” and encouraging critical thinking. Plato, Socrates' student, wrote famous works like The Republic, describing his views on the ideal society. Aristotle, Plato's student, focused on logic and observation of the natural world, laying the groundwork for science and modern philosophy. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient manuscripts from the Library of Alexandria, shows the spread of Greek philosophical texts across the Mediterranean.

In India, the Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama, c. 563–483 BCE) taught about ending suffering and achieving enlightenment. His Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path became the basis for Buddhism. Ancient texts like the Dhammapada, written in Pali, preserve his teachings. At the same time, Upanishadic thinkers asked questions about the soul (atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman), influencing Hindu philosophy. These ideas spread along trade routes and shaped Indian society’s view of duty and the afterlife.

In China, Confucius (Kong Fuzi, 551–479 BCE) focused on proper conduct, respect, and relationships. His Analects record his conversations and ethical teachings. Confucianism became the foundation for Chinese government exams and family life. Meanwhile, Daoist thinkers like Laozi emphasized harmony with nature and letting things flow naturally. Archaeologists have discovered bamboo texts from the Warring States period that reveal early Daoist and Confucian ideas.

These philosophical traditions show both continuity and change over time. Greek, Indian, and Chinese philosophies were influenced by their geographic context—city-states, empires, and river valleys. As societies faced new challenges, philosophers adapted old ideas and created new ones. Their work shaped social hierarchies, daily life, and government systems for centuries.

Studying ancient philosophers helps us understand how people in different times and places tried to make sense of the world. Their questions about right and wrong, truth, and how to live continue to inspire us today.

Interesting Fact: The word “philosophy” comes from Greek and means “love of wisdom.” Some of the earliest philosophical texts were written on bamboo, palm leaves, or clay tablets. This study connects to broader themes in world history, such as how ideas travel, adapt, and influence civilizations across time and place.

Who taught in Athens, Greece?

SocratesConfuciusBuddhaLaozi

Which book has Confucius’s sayings?

AnalectsUpanishadsThe RepublicDhammapada

What did Buddha teach about?

Ending sufferingDemocracyMathematicsTrade

Why did Socrates ask questions?

To encourage thinkingTo make lawsTo write poetryTo build temples

How did geography impact philosophies?

Ideas fit local societiesThey ignored geographyEveryone had same ideasPhilosophers moved often

What does 'continuity' mean?

Something stays the sameEverything changesGoing in circlesTraveling far