Euclid of Alexandria

Mathematics Greek -325 – -265 267 quotes

Often referred to as the 'Father of Geometry,' his work 'Elements' is one of the most influential mathematical treatises in history.

Quotes by Euclid of Alexandria

To build a strong argument, one must start with solid foundations. Much like building a house, but with fewer bricks and more logic.

Apocryphal, comparing logical construction to physical construction

Some truths are self-evident. Others require a diagram, a proof, and a good deal of patience from the student.

Apocryphal, acknowledging the effort involved in learning

The universe is built on mathematical principles. Ignore them at your own peril, or at least, at the peril of your bridge.

Apocryphal, highlighting the practical importance of geometry

A straight line is a line which lies evenly with the points on itself. Unlike some people, who lie unevenly with everyone.

Apocryphal, a playful comparison of geometry to human behavior

The pursuit of knowledge is its own reward. Though a few obols wouldn't hurt, I suppose.

Apocryphal, a humorous nod to his famous retort

If you can't define your terms, you're not having a discussion, you're having a shouting match. And I prefer geometry.

Apocryphal, contrasting logical discourse with unproductive argument

The beauty of a proof is not just in its conclusion, but in the elegance of its journey.

Apocryphal, emphasizing the aesthetic aspect of mathematics

To understand the infinite, start with the finite. It's a journey, not a leap of faith.

Apocryphal, reflecting on the nature of mathematical exploration

Some problems are like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. Others are like trying to prove the parallel postulate.

Apocryphal, comparing different levels of difficulty

The foundations of geometry are simple, yet profound. Much like the universe itself, if you bother to look closely.

Apocryphal, connecting geometry to the cosmos

To those who say mathematics is dry, I say they haven't seen the elegant dance of a well-constructed proof.

Apocryphal, defending the beauty of mathematics

A theorem is a truth that has been earned, not merely stated. A lesson many could learn.

Apocryphal, emphasizing the effort behind mathematical truth

What is asserted without proof can be denied without proof.

Euclid's Elements (implied principle)

Let it be granted that a circle may be described with any centre and any radius.

Euclid's Elements, Postulate 3

If a straight line falling on two straight lines makes the interior angles on the same side less than two right angles, the two straight lines, if produced indefinitely, meet on that side on which are the angles less than the two right angles.

Euclid's Elements, Postulate 5 (Parallel Postulate)

The knowledge of which geometry aims is the knowledge of the eternal.

Attributed (Platonic influence, not direct Euclid)

The beautiful is always symmetrical.

Attributed (general Greek aesthetic, not direct Euclid)

Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end.

Attributed (general philosophical sentiment, not direct Euclid)

Truth is eternal, and so is geometry.

Attributed (general philosophical sentiment, not direct Euclid)

The universe is a grand book written in the language of mathematics.

Attributed (Galileo, not Euclid)