|
Aristotle, the son of Nicomachus, was an extensive scientist who studied under Plato for nearly twenty years.
|
|
Upon Plato's death, Aristotle began to explore a more empirical approach to science, and his work formed the basis for many of his writings.
|
|
Phillip of Macedonia enlisted Aristotle to become the tutor of Alexander the Great, a position which afforded Aristotle the chance to travel and to establish advanced facilities for study and research.
|
|
One of these facilities was the library at Lyceum, enabling him to publish many of his books and store them securely.
|
|
During his tenure as not only Alexander's tutor but also Ptolemy's and Cassander's, Aristotle became the head of the royal academy of Macedon.
|
|
While Aristotle's work in science, specifically the physical sciences, made a tremendous impact on academia throughout much of the known world, his philosophical writings influenced much of Judeo-Christian belief.
|
|
This is especially true in the connection between organized religions and their dedication to learning and studies.
|
|
Muslim leaders actually refer to Aristotle by the title, "The First Teacher."
|
|
While his research and teachings were in place well into the Renaissance, they were largely modified or replaced during the period known as The Enlightenment.
|
|
However, much of Aristotle's work in the biological sciences, specifically in zoology, were not refuted until the nineteenth century.
|
|
As Aristotle's work continued, he made countless contributions to science and philosophy. It is estimated that only about one-third of his published writings are still in existence.
|
|
There is widespread belief that Aristotle played a role in the death of Alexander the Great due to the ruler's power-hungry nature and disregard for his subjects and close friends; some reports indicate that he ordered the execution of Aristotle's nephew for Callisthenes, leading to their falling out.
|
|
Aristotle died of natural causes at the age of 62, and was buried next to his wife. His son by a mistress he took after his wife's death was named after Aristotle's father, but he left his will and his school to a student of his, Antipater.
|
