WINSTON WEEKLY©^[1]

June 15, 2025

Vol. 3, No. 24

GREEK ROOTS[2]

On this Father’s Day, it is unlikely many of us will think of Aristotle, the Father of Zoology. His philosophical reflections regarding his study of animals and science provide the foundation for many modern zoos. Although Aristotle lived in Lebos for only two years, it was during that time that he began a multi-faceted approach to biology. Lebos, a Greek island off the coast of Turkey with nearly 250 miles of coastline is the eighth-largest Mediterranean island. Aristotle began developing the first of many animal classifications while on Lebos, leading to the Great Chain of Being, the hierarchical structure of all matter and life.

Greece has only a single zoo, the Attica Zoological Park. Founded by Jean-Jacques Lesuer., there are two full-time veterinarians, a Bird Curator, a Head Keeper of Big Mammals, and nearly eighty other employees. Twelve miles from Athens, it sits on approximately 50 acres and is home to more than 2,500 animals.  A member of the European Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, it hosts summer camps and International Days for Biological Diversity featuring several educational activities. From lemurs to chimps to gibbons to penguins, the programs “Celebrate the Differences” between the animals and their habitats.

The zoo has the third-largest collection of birds, including Yellow Colored Lovebirds, the Egyptian Goose, the Red-tailed Amazon, the Silver Pheasant, and the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill. From colorful lime green to deep red to gray, brown, and white, the birds vary in size, feathers, and feet. The zoo’s website is an experience unto itself, featuring an abundance of pictures and information about its animals and programs. www.atticapark.com.

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

This Father’s Day and during this week, consider if and how Aristotle’s work has impacted your state or environment. If you have a father or a father-figure, spend some time with them studying the various animals in Greece, whether at Attica Zoological Park, on Lebos, or in some other part of Grece. For additional inspiration, explore the resources at your local library regarding Greek history, animals, and Aristotle’s influence.

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[1] A Sunday newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles to be shared with the appropriate attribute.

[2] Resources: Signet Classics, The Philosophy of Aristotle by Renford Bambrough, 2011; Aristotle’s Way: How Ancient Wisdom Can Change Your Life by Edith Hall, Penguin Books, 2020; Crossbill Guides, Lebos, Greece, Knnv Pub, 2016.