History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps HoP 002 - Infinity and Beyond - Anaximander and Anaximenes
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Oct 25, 2010 Delve into the intriguing philosophies of Anaximander and Anaximenes as they tackle the nature of existence. Discover Anaximander's groundbreaking idea of the 'Apeiron,' the limitless source of all things. Explore Anaximenes' focus on air as the essential element of the cosmos. Their thoughts bridge gaps in cosmology and reveal the dynamic balance of opposing forces in our universe. These early thinkers set the stage for centuries of philosophical inquiry into the nature of reality.
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Scarce Evidence
- Little is known about pre-Socratics like Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes.
- Information about them is scarce, passed down through interpretations by later figures like Aristotle and Theophrastus.
Anaximander's Achievements
- Anaximander, from Miletus, created a sundial-like device in Sparta and a map.
- This demonstrates his scientific skills and Miletus's broad connections.
The Aperion and Cosmic Balance
- Anaximander's "Aperion," the infinite or boundless, is the source of all things.
- Opposing forces separate from it, interact, and maintain a cosmic balance.