Heraclitus (c. 535–475 BCE) was a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher known for his doctrine of Change Being central to the Universe and his belief in the unity of opposites. His fragments, particularly on the concept of "logos" and the Idea that "you cannot step into the same river twice," have deeply influenced Western Thought. Heraclitus's view of perpetual flux and his enigmatic Style earned him the epithet "The Obscure." His Philosophy laid the groundwork for later metaphysical and existential inquiries, profoundly Shaping the trajectory of classical and Modern Philosophy.
Anecdotes
- Claimed Fire was the primary Element of the universe, believing everything was in a State of constant change, famously stating, "You cannot step into the same river twice.
- Reportedly withdrew to live alone in the mountains, subsisting on herbs and acorns, to escape the Folly of human society.
- Credited with the cryptic assertion that change is the only constant, gaining the nickname "The Obscure" for his enigmatic style.
Magnitudes
- Embrace change; it is Life's constant Force.
- Seek Wisdom through constant, personal Introspection.
- Embrace change; it is the only constant.
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