Which historical figure is known for rethinking mental illness in terms of biological and psychological factors?

The correct choice is Hippocrates, who is recognized for being one of the first figures to propose a more systematic and rational approach to understanding mental illness. Hippocrates challenged the prevailing belief at the time, which often attributed mental disorders to supernatural forces or spiritual issues. Instead, he introduced the idea that mental illness could stem from natural causes, linking psychological symptoms to biological factors, such as imbalances in bodily fluids or 'humors.'

Hippocrates' work laid the groundwork for the integration of both biological and psychological perspectives in the study of mental health, promoting a more humane and scientific understanding of mental disorders that continued to influence later thinkers in psychology and medicine. This marked a significant shift in the perception of mental illness, moving toward a framework that considered both the body and mind in relation to psychological well-being.