0
While the historical record is unclear about precise influences, it seems likely that Thales of Miletus (circa 620-546 BC/BCE) had some impact on the thinking of the apparent discoverer of the Pythagorean Theorem, namely, Pythagoras (circa 570-495). Given the prestige of Thales in his day, along with his own careful research into mathematical theorems, it is reasonable to conclude that Pythagoras was inspired, and perhaps much more, by the mathematical work of Thales.
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
Ezra
Ross
TaigaAdd your answer:
Earn +20 pts
What progress of science and mathematics was made during the Hellenistic period?
For math, Pythagoras created the Pythagorean Theorem during that time.
How many things did Ancient Greeks invented and discovered?
The Ancient Greeks discovered and invented tons of things- we don't have an exact number. They also invented things that weren't physical, tangible objects- philosophy, the Socratic Method, and the Pythagorean Theorem, for example.
Why was Thales of Miletus?
While few details are known about Thales of Miletus, a legendary anecdote (or, story) has been told about him through the centuries. One day, the legend runs, being so focused on the skies above him, Thales fell into a well. Those looking on laughed at him and, so the legend goes, drew the conclusion that it is foolish to study higher things if one can't see where one's feet should be placed on the earth.
What is so important about Thales?
Thales of Miletus was a ancient Greek philosopher. He was the first philosopher to reject the mythological explanations the people of the time were giving to natural phenomena, and instead proposed a scientific study of the natural world. He also was a great mathematician with many innovative ideas, especially in the field of geometry. For this reasons he is dubbed "the father of science".
What is Greek contribution to math?
Many Greek Philosphers:Eudemus wrote histories of arithmetic, geomtry and astronmy.Theophrastus contributed to the history of physics.Pappus wrote the Mathematical Collection, which was an account of classical mathematic from Euclid to Ptolemy.Pappus wrote Treasury of Analysis, a collection of the Greek works themselves.Proclus wrote the Commentary, treating Book I of Euclid and contains quotations due to Eudemus.We also use many of their signs, such as Beta and Theta in math today.
