1001Philosophers

Hippias of Elis c. 470 BC – c. 400 BC

Hippias of Elis (c. 470 BC – c. 400 BC) was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era, associated with Sophism and Ancient Greek Philosophy.

Hippias of Elis was a Greek sophist of the late fifth century BC and one of the most colorful intellectuals of the age of Socrates. He boasted of a complete polymathic competence in mathematics, astronomy, music, grammar, history, and the practical arts and is said to have appeared at the Olympic games wearing only garments and ornaments he had made with his own hands. Plato devoted two dialogues, the Greater and Lesser Hippias, to careful and not uncritical engagement with him. He is credited with the discovery of the curve called the quadratrix, used to trisect the angle and to square the circle.

Key facts

Nationality
Greek
Era
Ancient
Movements
Sophism, Ancient Greek Philosophy

Selected quotes

  • Attributed to Hippias of Elis:

    “I make everything I wear with my own hands.”

  • Attributed to Hippias of Elis:

    “A free person should know how to do everything for themselves.”

  • Attributed to Hippias of Elis:

    “Custom is a tyrant over those who do not examine it.”

  • Attributed to Hippias of Elis:

    “Knowledge is the wealth no fortune can take away.”

  • Attributed to Hippias of Elis:

    “By nature, the wise are kindred to one another.”

Hippias of Elis by topic

Frequently asked about Hippias of Elis

When did Hippias of Elis live?
Hippias of Elis was born in c. 470 BC and died in c. 400 BC.
Where was Hippias of Elis from?
Hippias of Elis was a Greek philosopher of the Ancient era.
What philosophical movements is Hippias of Elis associated with?
Hippias of Elis was associated with Sophism and Ancient Greek Philosophy.
What was Hippias of Elis known for?
Hippias of Elis was a Greek sophist of the late fifth century BC and one of the most colorful intellectuals of the age of Socrates.
How many quotes are attributed to Hippias of Elis?
There are 5 attributed quotations from Hippias of Elis in the 1001Philosophers collection, organized by topic.