The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers · Chapter
Parmenides explained
This chapter details the life and teachings of Parmenides, a philosopher from Velia, pupil of Xenophanes and Anaximander, who embraced the tranquil life of philosophy under the influence of Aminias the Pythagorean.
What happens
This chapter details the life and teachings of Parmenides, a philosopher from Velia, pupil of Xenophanes and Anaximander, who embraced the tranquil life of philosophy under the influence of Aminias the Pythagorean. He is credited with asserting the spherical shape of the earth, its central position in the universe, and a dual-element theory of fire and earth. He distinguished between philosophy based on certain truth and that based on opinion, emphasized reason over sensation, and is noted for discovering that Hesperus and Lucifer are the same star. He also gave laws to his fellow-citizens and was the first to employ the 'Achilles' argument.
Themes in this chapter
Natural Philosophy and Cosmology
Parmenides asserted the spherical shape of the earth, its central position in the universe, and a dual-element theory of fire and earth, contributing to early cosmological thought.
The Philosopher's Life and Character
The chapter highlights Parmenides' noble birth, wealth, choice of a tranquil philosophical life under Aminias, and his dedication to reason over sensation.
Wisdom vs. Sophistry
Parmenides distinguished between philosophy based on certain truth and that based on opinion, emphasizing reason as the test of truth and dismissing unreliable sensations.
Characters to notice
- Parmenides
Main subject of the chapter; pupil of Xenophanes and Anaximander, follower of Aminias the Pythagorean; first to assert spherical earth and central universe; taught dual elements and the primacy of reason.
- Xenophanes
Mentioned as a teacher of Parmenides, though Parmenides did not follow his doctrines.
- Anaximander
Listed by Theophrastus as another teacher of Parmenides.
- Theophrastus
Cited as a source for Parmenides' teachings and his pupil relationship with Anaximander.
- Timon of Phlius
Quoted for a poetic description of Parmenides' vigorous mind.
- Speusippus
Recorded that Parmenides gave laws to his fellow-citizens.
Key passages
“And ’twill be needful for you well to know, The fearless heart of all-convincing truth: Also the opinions, though less sure, of men, Which rest upon no certain evidence.”
You must understand both the unwavering certainty of truth and the less reliable opinions of men that lack solid proof.
Parmenides distinguishes between certain truth and mere opinion.
“Let not the common usages of men Persuade your better taught experience, To trust to men’s unsafe deceitful sight, Or treacherous ears, or random speaking tongue: Reason alone will prove the truth of facts.”
Do not let everyday habits convince your educated mind to rely on deceptive sight, unreliable hearing, or careless speech; only reason can demonstrate the truth of things.
Parmenides advocates for reason over sensory experience as the path to truth.