The earliest philosophers referred to themselves as wise men. It is believed that Pythagoras, in the 6th century B. C., made a most significant step forward when he spoke of philosophers as “lovers of wisdom”. Wisdom is both lofty and elusive. It seems that the philosopher cannot claim to be wise, but only be a seeker of wisdom and in a mood of humility. Philosopher Jacques Maritain, by all accounts a man of exceptional humility, said it well in pointing out that “The philosopher…