Quick Facts
Laughing Philosopher. First to imagine atoms β the building blocks of everything.
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Life Journey
Democritus was born to a wealthy family in Abdera, a prominent city in ancient Greece.
Democritus starts his formal education, studying philosophy and natural sciences under Leucippus and other prominent teachers.
Democritus embarks on extensive travels to learn from various philosophers and scholars, including visits to Athens and Egypt.
Democritus spends time in Athens, studying with the philosopher Anaxagoras and engaging in philosophical debates.
After his travels, Democritus returns to Abdera, where he continues his philosophical work and begins writing his treatises.
Democritus formulates his atomic theory, proposing that the universe is composed of indivisible particles called atoms.
Democritus completes his major work, 'On the Nature of Things,' which outlines his atomic theory and materialist philosophy.
Democritus gains recognition and respect among his peers for his philosophical and scientific contributions.
Democritus writes extensively on ethics, psychology, and the nature of happiness, emphasizing the importance of a balanced life.
Democritus continues to write and refine his philosophical and scientific works, including treatises on cosmology and mathematics.
Democritus begins to influence younger philosophers and thinkers, contributing to the spread of his ideas and theories.
Democritus retires from active teaching and public life, focusing on his writings and personal reflections.
Democritus completes his work 'On the Senses,' exploring the nature of perception and the relationship between the senses and the external world.
In his later years, Democritus continues to reflect on his philosophical ideas and the implications of his atomic theory.
Democritus dies in Abdera, leaving behind a legacy of profound philosophical and scientific contributions.