I’ve been diving deep into the world of philosophy lately,

and while the big names like Plato and Nietzsche always surface, I stumbled upon something fascinating philosophers whose ideas were groundbreaking,

 yet their names have nearly disappeared from history.

These thinkers didn’t just live in the shadows of their more famous counterparts; they shaped ideas that quietly influenced generations.

Today,

I’m excited to share with you the lives and legacies of these underrated philosophers hidden gems who deserve to be in the spotlight.

Understanding the Hidden Gems of Philosophy

Why They Were Overlooked ?

While the works of Aristotle, Kant, and Confucius have dominated philosophical discourse, many profound thinkers remain in the shadows.

Some were overshadowed by the politics of their time; others, by geographical or cultural barriers. Yet, their ideas hold invaluable lessons for us today.

1. Al-Farabi (872-950 AD).

Al-Farabi, often called the "Second Teacher" after Aristotle, was a philosopher, scientist, and polymath during the Islamic Golden Age. He played a crucial role in translating and expanding upon Greek philosophy in the Islamic world.

-The Virtuous City.

Al-Farabi’s concept of the “Virtuous City” is a unique synthesis of philosophy, ethics, and politics.

He believed that a truly virtuous city is one where citizens work collectively towards achieving happiness, guided by a philosopher-king who possesses wisdom, justice, and moral virtue.

Unlike other forms of governance driven by power or wealth, the Virtuous City is governed by reason and aims for the common good, promoting harmony and ethical living.

2. Gargi Vachaknavi (Ancient India).

Gargi Vachaknavi, a revered philosopher from ancient India, was known for her intellectual prowess and participation in the philosophical debates documented in the Upanishads. She is one of the earliest known female philosophers in history.

-The Nature of Reality.

In her famous debate with the sage Yajnavalkya, Gargi posed profound questions about the nature of reality, specifically the essence that holds the cosmos together.

Her question, “What is it that pervades the universe?” challenged the prevailing notions of her time, pushing the boundaries of metaphysical inquiry. This philosophical exploration of reality's ultimate substance remains a cornerstone in Vedantic philosophy and underscores the importance of questioning and intellectual courage.

3. Wang Yangming (1472-1529 AD).

Wang Yangming was a Chinese philosopher, statesman, and military general during the Ming Dynasty. He became one of the most influential thinkers in Neo-Confucianism by challenging the rigid orthodoxy of the time.

-The Unity of Knowledge and Action (知行合一 - Zhī Xíng Hé Yī).

Wang Yangming argued that true knowledge is not merely intellectual but must be united with action. This concept,

known as “the unity of knowledge and action,” posits that knowing what is right inherently involves doing what is right. According to Wang, moral understanding and ethical action are inseparable; therefore, self-cultivation requires both inner reflection and outward deeds.

This idea revolutionized Confucian thought and emphasized a more personal, introspective path to virtue.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on these hidden philosophers who else should we explore? Share your ideas and reflections!

P.S : stay tuned for our next issue, where we’ll dive into one of philosophy’s most intriguing questions: "Are We Truly Free?" Join us in exploring the complex debate on free will and determinism in three days. Don’t miss it!