** The Founding Thinker of Ancient Greek Philosophy**
Considered the starting point of Ancient Greek philosophy, Thales (624-546 BC) was one of the most prominent philosophers of the Milesian school. As one of the first thinkers to examine nature rationally in search of the fundamental principle of the universe, Thales moved beyond mythological explanations and laid the foundations of rational thought.
Thales’ Life and Philosophy
Thales was born and lived in Miletus, a significant port city in Ionia. Recognized as one of the leading sages of his time, he made important contributions to astronomy, mathematics, and natural philosophy.
Natural Philosophy and the Proposition That "Water is the Origin of All Things"
Thales was the first philosopher to question the fundamental substance (arche) of the universe. According to him, the source of everything is water. He supported this view with the following arguments:
Life depends on water: No living being can survive without it.
Natural transformations are linked to water: Miletus was shaped by the alluvial deposits of the Meander River.
The cultural significance of water in Middle Eastern mythology: Ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian beliefs regarded water as the origin of creation.
Though this idea was more speculative than scientific, his attempt to explain natural phenomena through natural causes rather than divine will marked a major step in the history of philosophy.
Contributions to Mathematics and Astronomy
Thales’ Theorem: In geometry, he proved that the angle inscribed in a semicircle is a right angle.
Predicted a solar eclipse: He is said to have calculated the solar eclipse of May 28, 585 BC.
Practical wisdom: He foresaw a bountiful olive harvest, rented all the oil presses in advance, and made a substantial profit.
Political and Military Genius
Thales was not only a philosopher but also a strategist:
Advocated for the unity of Ionia against the Persian threat.
Advised King Alyattes of Lydia to divert the course of the Halys River to allow his army to cross.
His Theory on Earthquakes
Thales believed that the Earth floated on a vast body of water. According to him, earthquakes were caused by waves disturbing the land. Though scientifically inaccurate, this theory was significant in moving away from mythological explanations of natural phenomena.
Conclusion: Thales’ Legacy
Thales is remembered as the “Father of Philosophy.” He pioneered the shift from mythological thinking to rational inquiry. His question—“What is the fundamental substance of all things?”—became the foundational question of philosophy and science.
“The hardest thing is to know yourself, the easiest is to give advice to others.” —Thales
Thales’ ideas laid the groundwork for later philosophers like Anaximander, Anaximenes, and other Greek thinkers. Even today, his emphasis on rational inquiry remains influential, making him one of history’s most remarkable thinkers.
