Thales of Miletus (circa 624–546 BCE) was a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher and mathematician credited with laying the foundations of Western Philosophy. Known for his belief that Water is the essential substance of all Matter, he made significant contributions to Geometry and Astronomy. Thales' emphasis on Rationality and Observation marked a shift from mythological explanations to logical Reasoning, earning him Recognition as one of the Seven Sages of Greece. His pioneering ideas in natural philosophy and scientific inquiry have had a lasting Impact on the Development of Western Thought.
Anecdotes
- Once used his Knowledge of weather patterns to predict a bumper olive harvest, then bought up all the olive presses to demonstrate the practical Value of philosophy by making a Fortune.
- Successfully predicted a solar Eclipse, reportedly causing panic among People who were unaware of such astronomical events.
- Once made a fortune by cornering the olive oil press market, demonstrating his Wisdom in practical matters beyond philosophy.
Magnitudes
- Question everything, seek Understanding beyond appearances.
- Measure everything, proving the unseen by reasoning.
- Embrace Curiosity; question the foundations of all.
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