Global Civilization ca. 600 BCE

The great philosophers of antiquity are thought to have all lived during a tightly focused period of history around 600 BCE.

Zoroaster (Zarathustra) was a prophet born in North Western or Eastern Iran. There is no consensus among scholars about the period of life, although the "Traditional Dating" places his life around 600 BCE.

Greece was home to Pythagoras, and other great philosophers such as Thales and the natural philosophers.

India is the birthplace of two great thinkers during this time period. Mahavira, who was a promoter of Jainism, and Siddharta Gautama, whose ideas were embodied in Buddhism. However, Buddhism did not fully flourish until it was brought to Asia.

During this time period, Asia was also the birthplace of two profoundly influential people. Lao Tzu (Laozi) promoted the system of thought embodied in Taoism, while Confucius developed a system more focus on practicality and merit.

Dr. Matthew Marturano offers naturopathic medicine for holistic health and wellness. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Association of Naturopathic Physicians and is the Director of Strategic Development for Orchid Holistic Search.