Thomasius
CHRISTIAN, a German author; born in Leipsic, Germany, Jan. 1, 1655, studied at Frankfort-on-the- Oder (1675-1679); returned to his native town and lectured on law. In 1687 he adopted the German language in place of the Latin, as the vehicle of his expositions, and commenced an unconventional monthly journal. But this work and his advanced views on theological subjects excited so much opposition that he was THOMASIUS forced to leave Leipsic, and went first to Berlin, and afterward (1690) to Halle, where his lectures were the means of establishing a university, since famous.
In this university Thomasius became Professor of Jurisprudence. He broke away completely from traditional pedantry and mediæval terminology, and was a courageous opponent of trial for witchcraft and the use of torture. His specialty was international law (jus naturale) and ethics. He wrote " "Thoughts and Reminiscences" (1723-1726); and "History of Wisdom and Folly" (1693).
He died in Halle, Sept. 23, 1728.