The De Anima

"The De Anima," or "On the Soul," is a philosophical work by Aristotle that explores the nature of living things and what it means to be alive. Aristotle examines the soul as the essence of life, suggesting it is the source of growth, perception, and thought. He categorizes different kinds of souls: vegetative (plants), sensitive (animals), and rational (humans), each with distinct abilities. The work is foundational in understanding psychology, biology, and metaphysics, influencing countless thinkers and laying the groundwork for later studies on consciousness and life.