Empedocles of Acragas: Philosopher, Poet, Shaman

The Ancient Greek philosopher who developed the first theory of evolution

The history of philosophy is a tapestry composed of colourful characters. If there was a distinction for the most eccentric and colourful among this peculiar bunch, there is no doubt that Empedocles of Acragas would be in the running.

It is a rare philosopher who claims to be a god; it’s an even rarer one that raises people from the dead and cures a whol…