The civilization known for its profound contributions to philosophy and government is Ancient Greece. Greek thinkers, such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, laid the foundations of Western philosophy, exploring ethical, metaphysical, and epistemological questions. Their ideas influenced numerous disciplines, including politics, science, and art. Furthermore, Ancient Greece is credited with the development of democratic principles, particularly in Athens, where citizens practiced direct democracy by voting on legislative decisions. This political system inspired future democratic movements and concepts of citizenship, governance, and civic responsibility, significantly shaping the course of Western civilization.