Pherecydes of Syros and the Occult Roots of Philosophy

In this video I explain the mythology of Pherecydes of Syros and show how it anticipates many later developments in Greek philosophy. Pherecydes articulates a concern for finding a first principle or Arche, an ethical conception of the gods, a concept of a demiurge, and a doctrine of the immortality of the soul. In the process of examining his work, I show how the common cliche stipulating that the roots of Greek philosophy lie in demythologization is misguided, and that the roots of philosophy are actually grounded in myth.

You can find a corresponding essay on my website: https://premieretat.com/pherecydes-of-syros-and-the-occult-roots-of-philosophy/

The images used in this video are in the public domain.