Born in the tenth century AD, Alhazen was an Arab who was known as the first true scientist.
He developed the scientific method of experimentation, and was the first person to formulate hypothesis and conduct verifiable experiments. A scientist, philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician, Alhazen wrote over a hundred books, more than half of which have been preserved.
One of his most influential writings was in the field of optics. In this book, Alhazen gave experimental proof of the nature of light, the structure of the eye and the basic principles of reflection via mirror. He stated that contrary to popular belief, the eye does not send out rays to the object it sees. Rather it is the light reflected via the object that the eye beholds.
This was a completely new and revolutionary concept. The book comprises seven volumes, and was translated into Latin.