For instance, Thales is said to have predicted the eclipse in 585. This prediction was likely based on research conducted by Babylonian priests. The geometric theories proposed by Thales may have been derived from Egypt. These theories are important because they formed a foundation for Greek math. Use of the fourth theorem made estimating distances possible.
Foreign influence is also evident in Thales' cosmology.
He believed that the earth floats on water, which is similar to the Eqyptian idea of a flat earth resting on water. Thales also believed that everything originates from water . This departure reflects a step in the development of science as it is necessary to separate the natural from the supernatural when conducting scientific inquiries. Anaximander did not think water could be the source for all things since water destroys fire. Instead of water, Anaximedes argued that air is earth's primary component.