Pythagoras is often called the “father of numerology” because he saw numbers as the foundation of reality. His work in mathematics—especially in discovering numerical relationships in nature, music, and geometry—laid the groundwork for what we now call numerology.

But here’s the key distinction: the part of his work that identified mathematical patterns in nature stood the test of time and became the foundation of science and mathematics. The part where he assigned deeper, mystical meanings to numbers evolved into numerology, which scientists today classify as pseudoscience, while believers see it as a spiritual framework.

In my book, 30 Philosophers, I focus on what we know—the provable stepping stones of human thought. Pythagoras’ contributions to mathematics are undeniable, but his numerology? That falls into the realm of personal belief. And in the grand history of philosophy, we all have the right to believe whatever we choose.