Homo Universalis

What is a homo universalis?

It is a descriptive term that identifies a person as someone who has "learned very much" but more than a description it is a way of life that shapes not only the designated person but those around the homo universalis as well.

Learn more about the homo universalis behind this lens!

What is a homo universalis?

Also known as a polymath or polyhistor

A polymath (Greek polymath?s, ?????????, "having learned much")The term was first recorded in written English in the early seventeenth century is a person whose knowledge is not restricted to one subject area. In less formal terms, a polymath (or polymathic person) may simply refer to someone who is very knowledgeable. Most ancient scientists were polymaths by today's standards.1 Introduction: Greek Science in Context

The terms Renaissance Man and (less commonly) Homo Universalis (Latin for "universal man" or "man of the world") are related and used to describe a person who is well educated or who excels in a wide variety of subjects or fields.Encarta dictionary This idea developed in Renaissance Italy from the notion expressed by one of its most accomplished representatives, Leon Battista Alberti (1404?72): that ?a man can do all things if he will.? It embodied the basic tenets of Renaissance Humanism which considered man empowered, limitless in his capacities for development, and led to the notion that people should embrace all knowledge and develop their capacities as fully as possible. Thus the gifted men of the Renaissance sought to develop skills in all areas of knowledge, in physical development, in social accomplishments and in the arts.

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