BARANZANO, REDENTO GIOVANNI ANTONIO

BARANZANO, REDENTO GIOVANNI ANTONIO. — Barnabite philosopher and scientist, born in Serravalle Sesia (Biella) in 1590, and died in Montargis (Loiret) on 23 December 1622. He distinguished himself as a professor in the chair of philosophy at Annecy and was one of the first to challenge the omnipotence of Aristotle, attempting to demonstrate the falsity of certain of his theories that had hitherto been regarded as unquestionable in the schools. He corresponded with Father Niceron, with Bacon, who first communicated to him his theory of the *Novum Organum*, with La Motte Le Vayer, who held him in high esteem, and others. He left writings and pamphlets of a philosophical-mathematical nature.