Democritus

Democritus was an ancient Greek pre-Socratic philosopher born in Abdera, Thrace, about 460 BC and died around 370 BC. He is primarily remembered for his formulation of an atomic theory of the universe, which posits that all matter is composed of tiny, indivisible and indestructible particles, or atoms, moving in a void (empty space). This revolutionary idea laid the groundwork for modern science although it would take over two millennia for it to be systematically developed into the atomic theory known today. A pupil of Leucippus, another Greek philosopher who is often associated with the development of atomism, Democritus expounded on his master's ideas and wrote extensively, although very few of his writings survive today. He is credited with authoring over 60 works on a wide range of topics, including ethics, mathematics, music, and cosmology. Democritus was known for his extensive travels, which expanded his knowledge and influenced his thought. He visited countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe, bringing back a wealth of cultural and scientific knowledge. In his moral philosophy, he emphasized achieving cheerfulness (euthymia) as the supreme goal of life. He believed that this could best be attained by moderation, self-control, and an understanding of the natural world that would help to eliminate fear of the unknown. Although his atomic theory was overshadowed in antiquity by the ideas of Aristotle, who rejected atomism, Democritus's materialistic understanding of the world was later recovered and revered by philosophers and scientists of the Renaissance and early modern period. The scientific revolution of the 17th century, with figures such as Isaac Newton, built upon atomistic principles, and eventually, in the 19th and 20th centuries, atomic theory became a fundamental aspect of chemistry and physics. Democritus is now considered one of the founders of modern science due to his significant contributions to the conception of the atomic nature of matter.