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Socrates (c. 470–399 BC) was an ancient Greek philosopher widely considered one of the founders of Western philosophy. Despite leaving no writings of his own, Socrates is best known through the works of his students, especially Plato, who documented many of Socrates' dialogues and teachings.
Early Life
Birth and Background: Socrates was born in Athens, Greece, around 470 BC to a stone mason, Sophroniscus, and a midwife, Phaenarete. His early life and education are not well-documented, but he served as a hoplite (soldier) during Athens' wars, where his bravery was noted.
Philosophical Inquiry: Socrates was different from earlier philosophers in that he focused less on the natural world and more on ethics, virtue, and human behavior. His primary method of teaching was the Socratic method—engaging others in dialogues where he would ask probing questions to stimulate critical thinking and expose contradictions in their beliefs.
Philosophical Contributions
Socratic Method: This form of dialectic involves asking a series of questions to help a person or group arrive at a deeper understanding of the issue at hand. It is designed to stimulate self-reflection and the pursuit of truth. This method has had a lasting impact on philosophical inquiry and education.
Focus on Ethics: Socrates believed that virtue was the highest good and that knowledge was inherently connected to ethical conduct. He famously asserted that "the unexamined life is not worth living," promoting self-awareness and moral introspection as essential to living a fulfilling life. Critique of Athenian Society: Socrates was known for questioning the values of Athenian democracy, particularly its leaders and their decision-making. This skepticism made him both popular and controversial in Athens, where he frequently engaged in public debates.
Trial and Death
Accusations: In 399 BC, Socrates was put on trial for corrupting the youth of Athens and for impiety—allegedly not believing in the gods of the city and introducing new deities. He defended himself but was ultimately sentenced to death by drinking poison hemlock.
Philosophical Stand on Death: Even during his trial, Socrates maintained that he had been guided by a divine inner voice (his daimonion) to pursue truth and virtue. In his final dialogue, Phaedo, Plato recounts Socrates’ calm acceptance of death, viewing it as the soul’s release from the body.
Legacy
Socrates' life and philosophy laid the groundwork for subsequent Western thought. His ideas influenced his students, most notably Plato, whose dialogues form the primary source of information about Socrates' philosophy. Through Plato’s writings, Socrates continues to be a central figure in the study of ethics, logic, and the philosophy of law.
