Philosophy has played a crucial role in the development of various fields of study, including science, mathematics, physics, and economics. It is the foundation upon which these subjects have emerged, providing the framework for understanding and exploring the natural world.
One of the most notable philosophers from Greek times, Thales of Miletus, made significant contributions to the development of modern science and laid the foundation for many of the scientific principles we use today.
Through his work have been able to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us and continue to push the boundaries of knowledge in various fields.
In this post, discover Thales of Miletus’s contributions to the development of modern science and explore some of his most renowned quotes.
Unlocking the secrets of the universe: The philosophical contributions of Thales of Miletus
Pre-Socratic philosopher Thales of Miletus made significant contributions to Western philosophy and science. He introduced naturalism, the idea of the unity of nature, the idea of causality, and the idea of water as the first principle. He thought that everything in the world was connected and that it could all be explained in terms of nature. He also held the view that water was the fundamental component of all other things.
Thales is also renowned for his contributions to mathematics, especially for his work on geometry such as five geometric theorems, including the well-known Thales’ Theorem.
His theories impacted the work of subsequent philosophers and scientists and established the groundwork for the advancement of Western philosophy and science.
Thales of Miletus quotes: Philosophy to science with the Thales view!
Explore the wisdom and insight of one of the founders of Western philosophy, Thales of Miletus, through his famous quotes and sayings. Following are some popular quotes by Thales, that are still shared today among people:
1. We live not, in reality, on the summit of solid earth but at the bottom of an ocean of air.
2. A multitude of words is no proof of a prudent mind.
3. All things are from water and all things are resolved into water.
4. Nothing is more active than thought, for it travels over the universe, and nothing is stronger than a necessity for all must submit to it.
5. Time is the wisest of all things that are; for it brings everything to light.
6. If there is a change, there must be something that changes, yet does not change.
7. The most difficult thing in life is to know oneself.
8. Intellect is the swiftest of things, for it runs through everything.
9. There are three attributes for which I am grateful to Fortune: that I was born, first, human and not animal; second, man and not a woman; and third, Greek and not barbarian.
10. What man is happy? He who has a healthy body, a resourceful mind, and a docile nature.
11. God is the most ancient of all things, for he had no birth.
12. The past is certain, the future obscure.
13. What is most easy? – To give advice.
14. I will be sufficiently rewarded if when telling it to others you will not claim the discovery as your own, but will say it was mine.
15. There is neither excessive wealth nor immoderate poverty in a nation, then justice may be said to prevail.
16. Avoid doing what you would blame others for doing.
17. Place is the greatest thing, as it contains all things.
18. All human suffering comes from ignorance.
19. As brightness is to rustiness, so labor excelleth idleness.
20. Necessity is the strongest of things, for it rules everything.
21. Hope is the only good that is common to all men; those who have nothing else possess hope still.
Conclusion
Thales of Miletus is considered to be one of the most influential philosophers in the development of modern science. His pioneering work in the fields of mathematics, physics, and astronomy helped lay the foundation for many of the scientific principles we use today.
Thales played a crucial role in shaping the way we understand and explore the natural world. His ideas and quotes continue to be studied and debated to this day, and his legacy continues to be felt in the world of science and philosophy.
I am Shweta Sharma. I am a final year Masters student of Clinical Psychology and have been working closely in the field of psycho-education and child development. I have served in various organisations and NGOs with the purpose of helping children with disabilities learn and adapt better to both, academic and social challenges. I am keen on writing about learning difficulties, the science behind them and potential strategies to deal with them. My areas of expertise include putting forward the cognitive and behavioural aspects of disabilities for better awareness, as well as efficient intervention. Follow me on LinkedIn