1. Cleanthes - Noun
2. Cleanthes - Proper noun
ancient Greek philosopher who succeeded Zeno of Citium as the leader of the Stoic school (300-232 BC)
Source: WordNetBut then, says Cleanthes, Zeus uses the fire to "straighten out the common logos" that travels about (phoitan, "to frequent") mixing with the greater and lesser lights (heavenly bodies). Source: Internet
The character Cleanthes, summarizing the teleological argument, likens the universe to a man-made machine, and concludes by the principle of similar effects and similar causes that it must have a designing intelligence. Source: Internet
He was noted for intellectual audacity and self-confidence and his reliance on his own ability was shown, among other things, in the request he is supposed to have made to Cleanthes: "Give me the principles, and I will find the proofs myself." Source: Internet
He succeeded Cleanthes as head of the Stoic school when Cleanthes died, in around 230 BC. Source: Internet
When Cleanthes died, around 230 BC, Chrysippus became the third head of the school. Source: Internet