Active during the late sixth century BCE, he is often referred to as the "weeping philosopher" due to his melancholic reflections on the state of humanity.

Heraclitus famously proclaimed that “you cannot step into the same river twice,” illustrating his belief in the ever-changing nature of reality. His philosophy challenges the notion of permanence, asserting that strife and conflict are essential drivers of existence.

Central to his thought is the idea of Logos, a principle of order and reason that governs the cosmos, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. Through his cryptic aphorisms, Heraclitus invites deeper contemplation on the nature of life, presenting a profound understanding that embraces both change and unity within the diverse manifestations of the world.