Socrates

Socrates (c. 470–399 BCE) was a classical Greek philosopher from Athens, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Western thought. He is credited with laying the groundwork for Western philosophy's focus on ethics and reason.

His primary contribution to philosophy is the Socratic Method, a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue between individuals. This method involves asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to draw out ideas and underlying presumptions.

Central to his method was elenchus, the cross-examination of others' beliefs, often exposing their inconsistencies or lack of true understanding. Socrates famously claimed that his wisdom lay in knowing that he knew nothing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's own ignorance.

Socrates shifted philosophical inquiry from cosmology to ethics and human conduct. He believed that virtue was knowledge, and that a truly good life stemmed from understanding and living according to moral principles.

Although Socrates wrote nothing himself, his ideas and persona are primarily known through the writings of his student, Plato, in his dialogues. Plato's portrayal of Socrates shaped the understanding of his philosophy and teachings for millennia.

Socrates was famously tried and condemned to death by the Athenian democracy on charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. He accepted his fate, refusing to escape, thus becoming a philosophical martyr for intellectual integrity.

His unwavering commitment to truth, reason, and self-examination profoundly impacted the development of Western philosophy. Socrates inspired countless philosophers to engage in critical inquiry and ethical reflection.

Because he left no written works, understanding Socrates involves interpreting the accounts of his contemporaries, primarily Plato and Xenophon. This presents the "Socratic problem" of distinguishing the historical Socrates from his literary portrayals.