Democritus (1 gen 460 anni a. C. – 1 gen 370 anni a. C.)

Descrizione:

Democritus, born around 460 BC in Abdera, Thrace, was a pre-Socratic philosopher known for his pioneering ideas in atomic theory.

Often referred to as the 'father of modern science,' Democritus's philosophical ideas laid the groundwork for our modern understanding of the physical world.

Democritus, along with his teacher Leucippus, proposed that the universe is composed of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms, moving in a void.

According to Democritus, these atoms, which are eternal and unchangeable, combine in different ways to form the various objects and substances we see in the world.

This atomic theory was revolutionary for its time and marked a significant departure from the philosophical ideas of his contemporaries, who typically believed in the four classical elements of earth, air, fire, and water.

In addition to his atomic theory, Democritus also made significant contributions to ethics.

He believed that the goal of life was to achieve a tranquil mind, a state he referred to as "cheerfulness" or "euthymia."

According to Democritus, this state could be achieved through moderation, self-control, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Despite the groundbreaking nature of his ideas, Democritus's atomic theory was largely ignored or rejected by the philosophers of his time, including Plato and Aristotle.

It wasn't until the 17th century, with the advent of modern science, that his ideas were rediscovered and recognized for their insight.

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