From Guilt to Responsibility: Ancient Theories of Action from Homer to Aristotle (plus Alexander of Aphrodisias) [Topical Collection]
Issue: Issue 21 • Author/s: Carlo Natali
Topics: Epistemology, History of Philosophy, Metaphysics, Philosophy of action
In Greece, the problem of responsibility for choices was originally discussed by poets and legislators. Philosophical analysis developed in relation to these reflections, and Plato wanted to undermine the authority of poets with a new approach, inspired by Socrates. Aristotle tackled the question starting from Plato's position. His approach was not limited to the question of the responsibility of those who perform evil actions, but extends to a general evaluation of the entire sphere of human actions. The problem of responsibility in Aristotle is discussed on the basis of a…