Anaxagoras: Biography, Facts and Career
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Anaxagoras (; Ancient Greek: Ἀναξαγόρας, Anaxagóras, 'lord of the assembly'; c. 500 BC – c. 428 BC) was a Pre-Socratic Greek philosopher. Born in Clazomenae at a time when Asia Minor was under the control of the Persian Empire, Anaxagoras came to Athens. In later life he was charged with impiety and went into exile in Lampsacus. Responding to the claims of Parmenides on the impossibility of change, Anaxagoras introduced the concept of Nous (Cosmic Mind) as an ordering force. He also gave several novel scientific accounts of natural phenomena, including the notion of panspermia, that life exists throughout the universe and could be distributed everywhere. He deduced a correct explanation for eclipses and described the Sun as a fiery mass larger than the Peloponnese, and also attempted to explain rainbows and meteors. He also speculated that the sun might be just another star.
Quick facts about Anaxagoras
- Full name: Anaxagoras
- Born: -0499-01-0
- Known as: Author
- Wikidata ID: Q83041
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Frequently asked questions
Who is Anaxagoras?
Anaxagoras (; Ancient Greek: Ἀναξαγόρας, Anaxagóras, 'lord of the assembly'; c. 500 BC – c. 428 BC) was a Pre-Socratic Greek philosopher.
What is Anaxagoras known for?
Anaxagoras (; Ancient Greek: Ἀναξαγόρας, Anaxagóras, 'lord of the assembly'; c. 500 BC – c. 428 BC) was a Pre-Socratic Greek philosopher.
When was Anaxagoras born?
Anaxagoras was born on -0499-01-0.
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