Particularly in Greece, the sage tradition blends into a period of natural philosophy, where ancient scientists or philosophers try to explain nature using rational methods The word “philosophy” derives from ancient Greek, in which the philosopher is a lover or pursuer ( philia ) of wisdom ( sophia ).

The earliest Greek philosophers were not known as philosophers; they were simply known as sages. The sage tradition is a largely prehistoric tradition that provides a narrative about how intellect, wisdom, piety, and virtue lead to the innovations central to the flourishing of ancient civilizations.

Philosophy — the “love of wisdom.” An academic discipline that attempts to grasp the broadest possible understanding of things. It is characterized by rational explanation and a willingness…. sage tradition — a largely prehistoric tradition that provides a narrative about how intellect, wisdom, piety, and virtue lead to the innovations central to the flourishing of ancient civ. Sage — a wise person. Many ancient cultures designated important wise figures as “sages.”. philosopher — a lover or pursuer ( philia ) of wisdom ( sophia ).