Anaxagoras

Anaxagoras

Philosopher

Start Chat

AI Personality

Quick Facts

Theory of Nous
Contributions to early scientific thought
Influence on later philosophers

Mind rules the universe. Pre-Socratic philosopher who brought rational thought to Athens.

Conversation Starters

Life Journey

500 BCBorn in Clazomenae, Ionia

Anaxagoras was born in Clazomenae, a Greek city in Ionia, now part of modern-day Turkey. His family was wealthy and influential.

485 BCBegins early education

Anaxagoras begins his early education, likely focusing on the traditional subjects of Greek education, including mathematics, philosophy, and rhetoric.

475 BCStudies with Anaximenes

Anaxagoras studies under the philosopher Anaximenes of Miletus, a student of Anaximander, deepening his understanding of natural philosophy.

465 BCMoves to Athens

Anaxagoras moves to Athens, becoming part of the vibrant intellectual community. He meets and influences young thinkers, including Pericles.

460 BCProposes the concept of Nous

Anaxagoras introduces the concept of Nous, or Mind, as the organizing principle of the universe, a significant contribution to early Greek philosophy.

455 BCBecomes a friend of Pericles

Anaxagoras forms a close friendship with Pericles, the prominent Athenian statesman, and influences his political and philosophical views.

450 BCPublishes his major work

Anaxagoras publishes his major philosophical work, outlining his theories on the nature of the cosmos and the role of Nous in the universe.

445 BCInfluences early scientific thought

Anaxagoras's ideas on natural phenomena, such as the nature of the sun and the moon, significantly influence early scientific thought in Greece.

440 BCFaces charges of impiety

Anaxagoras is charged with impiety for his heliocentric views and other unorthodox beliefs. He is defended by Pericles but is eventually exiled from Athens.

435 BCSettles in Lampsacus

Anaxagoras settles in Lampsacus, a city in the Troad region, where he continues his philosophical and scientific work, teaching and writing.

430 BCFounding a school in Lampsacus

Anaxagoras founds a school in Lampsacus, attracting students and scholars interested in his philosophical and scientific teachings.

425 BCContinues philosophical writing

Anaxagoras continues to write and refine his philosophical and scientific theories, influencing the next generation of thinkers and scientists.

420 BCBecomes a respected elder

Anaxagoras is revered as a respected elder in Lampsacus, known for his wisdom and contributions to philosophy and science.

415 BCDies in Lampsacus

Anaxagoras dies in Lampsacus, leaving behind a legacy of profound philosophical and scientific thought that influences future generations.

Similar Figures