Thomas Taylor (1758 - 1835) was an English translator. He was the first to translate into English the complete works of Aristotle and of Plato. Many famous authors read his translations, which influenced their writing. Plato studied under Socrates and was Aristotle's teacher. Together these three Greeks developed the basis of philosophical thinking for the entire Western world. Plato was also a writer, mathematician, and founder of the Academy in Athens, which was the first university in Europe. Introduction to the Philosophy and Writings of Plato is based on the premise that "Plato may be justly called the primary leader of philosophy, magnificent, and divine."