Arcesilaus

315 BC - 240 BC *

Greek philosopher who championed scepticism, holding that we should suspend our beliefs and judgements

ARCESILAUS (316—241 B.C.), a Greek philosopher and founder the New, or Middle, Academy. Born on Pitane in Aeolis, he was trained by Autolycus, the mathematician, and later at Athens by Theophrastus and Crantor, by whom he was led to join the Academy. He subsequently became intimate with Polemon and Crates, whom he succeeded as head of the school. Diogenes Laertius says that he died of excessive drinking, but the testimony of others (e.g. Cleanthes) discredit the story, and he is known to have been much respected by the Athenians. His doctrines must be gathered from the writings of others (Cice... [read entire biography]

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Arcesilaus at Encarta Encyclopedia

Arcesilaus at Britannica Encyclopedia

Arcesilaus at Xrefer.com