Aristotle
By: Maya Barron
Childhood
Aristotle was born in 384 BC in Stagira, Greece. His father, Nicomachus, named him Aristotle, which means “the best purpose”. Nicomachus was a physician, and his son was inspired by his scientific work, but didn't show much interest in medicine. When he turned 18, he moved to Athens to pursue his education at Plato's Academy.
Plato's Academy
Once Aristotle got to Plato's academy, he remained there for 20 years. He graduated early, and was awarded a position on the faculty teaching rhetoric and dialogue. It had appeared that Aristotle thought that he would take over the academy when Plato died, but when the position was given to Plato's nephew, Aristotle left Athens to conduct experiments and study on his own.
A stone figure of Aristotle.
A painting of Aristotle.
A stone statue of Aristotle.
Tutoring Alexander the Great
Shortly after Aristotle left Athens, Philip of Macedon requested that he tutor Alexander the Great. He started his tutoring in 343 BC. Teaching Alexander gave Aristotle many opportunities and an abundance of supplies. He then established a library in the Lyceum, which helped the production of his many books, and later became where he studied.
Classification
Aristotle was one of the first humans to classify animals into different categories. He distinguished about 500 species of birds, mammals, and fish. Some of his classifications still exist today. What zoologists would call vertebrates and invertebrates, Aristotle would call them animals with blood and animals without blood. He then divided the animals with blood into live-bearing, or egg-bearing.
Contributions to Psychology
Aristotle is considered the true father of psychology by many scholars. He is responsible for the theoretical and philosophical framework that contributed to psychology's beginnings. His book, De Anima, is also considered the first book on psychology. Aristotle described the psyche as a substance able to receive knowledge. He also believed that thinking required the use of images.
Aristotle's Life Through Pictures
Aristotle's Life