Paul-Henri Thiry

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An 18th century French philosopher known for atheism and materialism

proper noun

: Paul-Henri Thiry

Paul-Henri Thiry was one of the first European philosophers to openly declare his atheism.

Examples

The writings of Paul-Henri Thiry had a significant influence on Enlightenment thought.
Many modern scholars cite Paul-Henri Thiry when discussing the origins of secular philosophy.
The works of Paul-Henri Thiry have significantly influenced modern philosophy.
Did Paul-Henri Thiry advocate for atheism in his writings?
Paul-Henri Thiry was one of the first European philosophers to openly declare his atheism.
Many modern scholars cite Paul-Henri Thiry when discussing the origins of secular philosophy.
The writings of Paul-Henri Thiry had a significant influence on Enlightenment thought.

Surface Forms

Paul-Henri Thiry main

Morphology

Paul-Henri + Thiry

This is a proper name referring to a specific historical person; knowing the constituent name parts ('Paul-Henri' and 'Thiry') does not allow a B1 learner to infer the meaning 'French philosopher (1723–1789) known for atheism and materialism.' Proper names are referential and arbitrary rather than compositional, so the biographical/professional information is not derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Paul-Henri Thiry hosted lively meetings in his Paris home where he and other writers argued that the world is only matter and that gods are not needed; this clear image of him arguing against religion is why his name is linked to early 'atheism' and 'free thinking'.