The term "Pre-Socratic" refers to a group of early Greek philosophers who lived before Socrates, around the 6th century BCE. These thinkers, such as Thales, Anaximander, and Heraclitus, focused on understanding the nature of the universe, existence, and the fundamental principles of reality. They sought explanations for natural phenomena without relying on mythology, laying the groundwork for Western philosophy. Pre-Socratic philosophers explored various concepts, including the nature of matter, change, and the cosmos. Their inquiries marked a shift from mythological explanations to rational thought, influencing later philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. This period is crucial for the development of scientific and philosophical thought.