Plato
Plato used the dialogue format to convey complex philosophical ideas in a more engaging and accessible way for readers. By presenting Socrates engaging in conversation with others, Plato could illustrate how Socrates' method of questioning and reasoning led to deeper insights and truths. The dialogue format also allowed Plato to explore multiple perspectives and present arguments from various points of view.
because of his iconoclastic attitude that not everyone liked
The Socratic seminar is named after Socrates because it is modeled after his philosophical method of question-and-answer dialogue to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. Socrates believed that through engaging in thoughtful discourse and questioning, individuals could arrive at a deeper understanding of complex topics.
Everyone because they thought Socrates was teaching young people to rebel against their city state
Socrates appeals to Diotima in Plato's "Symposium" because she is portrayed as a wise and knowledgeable priestess of love. He seeks her guidance and teachings on the nature of love and how it can lead to the ultimate good and the pursuit of wisdom. Diotima's insights and teachings shape the dialogue on love and serve as a powerful influence on Socrates' philosophy.
Socrates is considered the wisest man in Athens because he recognized his own ignorance. He was known for his humility in acknowledging what he did not know, which set him apart from others who claimed to have knowledge beyond their understanding. This self-awareness of his limitations allowed Socrates to engage in questioning and dialogue to seek truth and wisdom.
Socrates discusses the nature of piety or holiness in the dialogue Euthyphro. He questions Euthyphro about his understanding of piety and investigates whether actions are pious because the gods approve of them, or whether the gods approve of actions because they are pious.
According to Plato in the dialogue called Apology (which means "Defense"), Socrates became a philosopher because he doubted the oracle at Delphi (a holy site of the God, Apollo) when the orcale claimed that Socrates was the wisest man in Greece. Socrates says that he didn't believe this at all, so he began talking to people who had reputations for wisdom. What he discovered was that they weren't as wise as they thought; in fact, they often didn't know what they were talking about--so Socrates came to the conclusion that he, Socrates, was actually the wisest man only because of this: he at least realized that he wasn't wise.You can read this part of the dialogue yourself and see what else you notice--just search for the word "oracle" after you follow the link (listed below under Sources and Related Links.
Socrates referred to himself as an intellectual midwife because he saw his role as helping others give birth to their own ideas and understanding through careful questioning and dialogue. Like a midwife who assists in the delivery of a baby, Socrates believed he could assist others in giving birth to their own intellectual development and realization of truth.
Socrates believed he was the wisest because he recognized his own ignorance. While others claimed to have knowledge they did not truly possess, Socrates acknowledged his lack of knowledge and constantly sought to learn from others through dialogue and questioning. This humility in admitting his ignorance made him wiser than those who falsely claimed to know the truth.
Socrates believes he has been useful to Athens because he challenged the beliefs and values of his fellow citizens, encouraging them to think critically and question their assumptions. By engaging in dialogue and debate, Socrates aimed to improve the intellectual and moral character of his fellow citizens, even if it meant challenging the status quo and facing criticism for his views.
Socrates is considered a role model because of his commitment to seeking truth and questioning assumptions, his willingness to engage in open dialogue and debate, and his emphasis on self-examination and self-improvement. His philosophical method of questioning and reflection continues to inspire critical thinking and intellectual growth.