Phylosophy as a way of knowing: Aristoteles, metaphysics, a, 1 y 2, (980a, 21-983a, 24)

Abstract

We try to develop the basic elements that Aristotle’s definition of philosophy is based on, which are the ones mostly used as if it were understandable enough for a proper comprehension of philosophical activity. Taking into account the Aristotelian text (METAFISICA A, 1 y 2, 980 a 21 - 983 a 24), we approach the reflection on philosophy from two main perspectives: as a higher knowledge mode under the common understanding of the Greek, understood as σοφία, and as superior theoretical way of knowing itself, as φιλοσοφὶα. For this, we will consider the different knowing modes from the natural conditions that make them possible and stopping particularly at each of them. We conclude with a tentative definition of philosophy according to Aristotle, in the way that the elucidated is not the only possible for him.