Philosopher and scientist, born Champtercier, Provence, France, 1592; died Paris, France, 1655. After studying theology at Aix and becoming provost of Digne cathedral, he received a chair of mathematics at the College Royale de France, where he delivered a series of astronomical lectures. Gassendi, called "the Bacon of France," is especially noteworthy for his attempt to build up a Christian Epicurean philosophy in opposition to the Aristotelian system.