Thales of Miletus

Cosmology Ancient Greek -624 – -546 337 quotes

Considered the first philosopher and scientist, he proposed that water was the fundamental element of the universe.

Quotes by Thales of Miletus

The most just of things is necessity, for it is irresistible.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The best of things is virtue, for without it there is nothing good.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The most difficult thing is to know yourself.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The easiest thing is to give advice.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The most pleasant thing is to achieve what you desire.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

Live well, and you will die well.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

Avoid idleness.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

Be moderate in all things.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The beginning is the most important part of the work.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

Hope is the only good that is common to all men; those who have nothing else possess hope.

Attributed by Stobaeus, Anthologium

The sun is a fiery mass.

Attributed by Hippolytus, Refutation of All Heresies

The moon is earthy.

Attributed by Hippolytus, Refutation of All Heresies

He was the first to predict eclipses of the sun.

Attributed by Herodotus, Histories

The stars are made of earth.

Attributed by Aetius, Placita Philosophorum

The universe is animated and full of divinities.

Attributed by Aetius, Placita Philosophorum

Everything is from water and everything returns to water.

Attributed by Simplicius, Commentary on Aristotle's Physics

The soul is a moving force.

Attributed by Diogenes Laërtius, Lives of Eminent Philosophers

The world is one.

Attributed by Aetius, Placita Philosophorum

The principle of all things is water.

Attributed by Simplicius, Commentary on Aristotle's Physics

The world is full of gods.

Aristotle, De Anima