Physis
conceptThe Greek concept of nature — the inherent quality that makes something what it is and drives its growth.
The Myth
Physis meant both "nature" in general and the specific nature of a thing — what it is by birth and growth rather than by human convention (nomos). The pre-Socratic philosophers made physis their central inquiry, seeking the fundamental substance underlying all natural change. The physis-nomos debate — whether laws and customs are natural or merely conventional — was among the most consequential in Greek thought.
Symbols
Fun Fact
The entire field of physics takes its name from physis — Newton's Principia was originally titled "Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy."
Words We Inherited
English words and phrases that trace back to this myth:
Explore Further
Aegis
conceptThe aegis was a divine shield or breastplate belonging to Zeus and wielded by Athena, fringed with...
Agape
conceptSelfless, unconditional love — the highest form of love in Greek philosophical and theological...
Ajax (Shield)
conceptAjax's shield was a massive tower shield of seven ox-hides layered with bronze — the largest...
Aletheia
conceptTruth understood as unconcealment — the revealing of what was hidden.
Amazonomachy
conceptThe Amazonomachy was the legendary battle between the Athenians and the Amazons who invaded Athens...
Ambrosia
conceptAmbrosia was the food of the Olympian gods — anyone who consumed it became immortal, but mortals...
Anagnorisis
conceptAnagnorisis was the moment of recognition in tragedy — when the hero discovers the truth about...
Aporia
conceptA state of philosophical puzzlement where contradictory arguments seem equally strong.
Apotropaic
conceptApotropaic rituals and symbols were used to ward off evil, bad luck, and malicious spirits — from...
Arete
conceptArete was the Greek concept of excellence in all things — not merely moral virtue but the...
Arete (Concept)
conceptExcellence or virtue — the quality of being the best possible version of what something is.
Argonauts
conceptThe Argonauts were the band of heroes who sailed with Jason on the Argo to retrieve the Golden...