Aristotle

Aristotle comes from the ancient Greek Αριστοτελης meaning "the best end", derived from the elements αριστος (aristos) "best" and τελος (telos) "end, consummation, aim, goal, perfection," literally “completion of a cycle.” The name was most famously borne by the 4th century B.C. Greek philosopher Aristotle (384 B.C.-322 B.C.). Aristotle had been a student of Plato who, in turn, had been a student of Socrates. Aristotle is also notable for being Alexander the Great’s personal tutor (a high-paying and distinguished position, to say the least). Philosophy is one of those difficult subjects to wrap one’s mind around, but suffice it to say that Aristotle is basically regarded as the Founding Father of Logical Theory which forms the basis of Western thought. He is credited with the notions that “All men by nature desire knowledge” and that “happiness” is the goal of life (and happiness consists of “virtuous activities” rather than “pastimes and amusements”). He was also famous for his concept of “The Golden Mean” (i.e., everything in moderation). The second most famous Aristotle was Greek shipping tycoon and second husband of Jacqueline Kennedy, Aristotle Onassis (1906-1975). As a modern given name for Western baby boys, Aristotle is not common beyond the Greek borders. Many people find it just a wee bit too pretentious.