1001Philosophers

Archytas of Tarentum 428 BC – 347 BC

Archytas of Tarentum (428 BC – 347 BC) was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era, associated with Pre-Socratic and Ancient Greek Philosophy.

Archytas of Tarentum was a Greek philosopher, mathematician, statesman, and friend of Plato, the leading figure of the late Pythagorean tradition. He served as elected general of his city seven times in succession and never lost a battle. His mathematical work included the first solution to the problem of doubling the cube, original contributions to the theory of proportion and to musical theory, and an early account of the science of mechanics. According to Plato's Seventh Letter, Archytas's intervention saved Plato's life during his stormy stay at the court of Dionysius II of Syracuse.

Key facts

Nationality
Greek
Era
Ancient
Movements
Pre-Socratic, Ancient Greek Philosophy

Selected quotes

  • Attributed to Archytas of Tarentum:

    “All things flow into one through proportion.”

  • Attributed to Archytas of Tarentum:

    “Number is the heart of truth.”

  • Attributed to Archytas of Tarentum:

    “Reason is the eye of the soul.”

  • Attributed to Archytas of Tarentum:

    “Friendship is equality, and equality is friendship.”

  • Attributed to Archytas of Tarentum:

    “Calculation, when it is correctly performed, settles disagreement and brings concord.”

Frequently asked about Archytas of Tarentum

When did Archytas of Tarentum live?
Archytas of Tarentum was born in 428 BC and died in 347 BC.
Where was Archytas of Tarentum from?
Archytas of Tarentum was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era.
What philosophical movements is Archytas of Tarentum associated with?
Archytas of Tarentum was associated with Pre-Socratic and Ancient Greek Philosophy.
What was Archytas of Tarentum known for?
Archytas of Tarentum was a Greek philosopher, mathematician, statesman, and friend of Plato, the leading figure of the late Pythagorean tradition.
How many quotes are attributed to Archytas of Tarentum?
There are 5 attributed quotations from Archytas of Tarentum in the 1001Philosophers collection, organized by topic.