Ends Quote by Thales
“Placing your stick at the end of the shadow of the pyramid, you made by the sun's rays two triangles, and so proved that the pyramid [height] was to the stick [height] as the shadow of the pyramid to the shadow of the stick.”
About This Quote
Source Historical: Geometry of Shadows, attributed to Thales of Miletus, 6th century BC
Demonstrates proportional reasoning using shadows to relate heights of objects.
In simple terms: Use shadows to compare heights.
Apply simple geometry to solve real problems.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- architecture
- surveying
- education
- navigation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern tools replace this method?
- How does light angle affect accuracy?
Assumes flat ground and consistent light.