The name Aristotle means the "the best purpose" in Greek, derived from the Greek word "aristos" (the best) and "telos" (aim). Aristotle is one of the best Greek philosophers in the world, and still remains so even today.

Aristotle was born in 384BCE in Staegira to Nichomachus, the court physician of King Amyntas of Macedonia. This beginning provides the basis of Aristotle's interest in science and his association with the Macedonian Court. At the age of 17, Aristotle was sent to Athens to study under Plato in his Academy. It is ironic that although Aristotle studies under Plato, he disagreed with his teacher on just about everything. Though disagreements occur constantly between Plato and his young student, there was admiration, respect, reverence and tolerance between the both of them that ultimately enables them to work together. Later, Aristotle also founded his own school, the Lyceum. Aristotle was married twice, first to the foster daughter of his noble friend Hermeias, named Pythias. After her death he married Herpyllis, who came from his birthplace, Stageira. There was some controversy surrounding this marriage because Herpyllis did not have as high a social position as his first wife, Pythias. Herpyllis gave birth to his son Nichomachus and was entrusted with the care of his daughter from his first marriage.

Aristotle is famous for being the tutor of another famous figure in history, Alexander the Great. When Alexander turned 13, Aristotle was invited to Macedonia by Philip to tutor his young son and his group of friends which is said to include Heaphestion and Harpalus. Alexander stayed under Aristotle's tutelage for five years until he was given charge of the throne when Philip went off to war. Later, throughout much of Alexander's reign, Aristotle was an informal adviser to the young conqueror.

Alexander the Great provided Aristotle with ample means for the acquisition of books and the pursuit of his scientific investigation while he was in power. It was also said that Aristotle maintained a long correspondence with Hephaestion, Alexander's closest friend and ally.

He shared the glory of Alexander's reign even when it was reported that this two great figures in history disagree on matters at times. When Alexander died in 323BCE, Aristotle was suspected to be associated with Alexander's tyranny and was forced to be exiled from Athens.

Aristotle fled to Chalkis, on the island of Eubea where he passed away in 322BCE, just a year after his famous, and probably most brilliant student.

-Contributed by Rhea Aristotle