Claude Adrien Helvétius
French philosopher and social theorist
Born
January 26th, 1715
310 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1771
253 years ago — 56 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
Born in 1715 in Paris, this philosopher contributed significantly to the Enlightenment. Studied philosophy and medicine at the University of Reims. Published the influential work 'De l'esprit' in 1758, which examined the nature of human thought and understanding, arguing that all mental faculties were developed through experience and education. Held significant discussions on moral philosophy and education, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in shaping individual and social outcomes. Engaged with prominent contemporaries, including Diderot and Rousseau. His ideas fostered dialogue in philosophical and educational reform.
Published 'De l'esprit' (1758)
Promoted ideas of empiricism in philosophy
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