Democritus

About

Democritus, born around 460 BCE in Abdera, was a prominent ancient Greek philosopher and polymath. He is best known for his atomic theory, which posits that everything is composed of indivisible particles called atoms. These atoms are eternal, indestructible, and in constant motion within an infinite void. Democritus' theory was foundational to modern physics, although it was not widely accepted until much later. He also contributed to fields such as ethics, mathematics, and aesthetics. Democritus traveled extensively and wrote numerous treatises on various subjects. His philosophical views emphasized materialism and the role of necessity over purpose in the universe. Despite his significant contributions, none of his original works have survived, and our understanding of his ideas comes from secondary sources. Democritus is remembered as the "laughing philosopher" for his emphasis on cheerfulness. His legacy extends beyond physics to anthropology and ethics, showcasing his broad intellectual influence.