Aristotle (384–322 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher, scientist, and polymath who made lasting contributions to numerous fields, including philosophy, ethics, politics, biology, and metaphysics. Born in Stagira, he studied under Plato at the Academy in Athens, later becoming a teacher to Alexander the Great. Aristotle’s works cover a vast array of subjects, and his systematic approach to inquiry laid the groundwork for Western thought. His “Nicomachean Ethics” explored virtue and moral character, while “Politics” delved into the structure of an ideal state. In “Metaphysics,” he contemplated the nature of existence and reality.
Aristotle’s influence extended to science, where he made significant contributions to biology and taxonomy. His philosophy emphasized empirical observation and logical reasoning, shaping the methodologies of subsequent scientific inquiry. Known as the “Philosopher” in medieval Europe, Aristotle’s legacy endured through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and his works remain foundational in various academic disciplines, making him one of the most influential figures in Western intellectual history.
