Socrates and "care of the self"
Young Socrates also knew the Sophists and listened to their debates and ceremonial orations. Socrates and the Sophists neither science nor Sophistry, however, could answer a new philosophic question that struck him.
The earlier Greek thinkers had been concerned almost wholly with physics and cosmology until the Sophists suggested that what should be done instead was to teach young men skills to satisfy their natural self-interest.
Instead, Socrates wondered: "What is a 'self'?" Although "Know Thyself!" was one of three sayings carved on the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, the directive proved difficult to carry out. The so-called scientific views of the time particularly that of atomism, defined the self as a physical organ that responded to environmental pressure. Socrates felt, however, that the Sophists, for all their talk of self-interest, had little curiosity about the status of a self; they assumed that it was merely an isolated centre constantly greedy for more pleasure, prestige, and power.
The Sophists further thought that the values that people advocated were all conventional, varying from one culture to another, and that no one would ever act against his or her own interest, regardless of how many people talked as though they would. This complex of ideas offered little to explain human nature and excellence. Socrates' Later Life and Thought Socrates, setting about his search for the self, was convinced of the importance of his quest. Until educators and teachers knew what human excellence was, he thought, they were engaging in false pretences by claiming that they knew how to improve students or societies. Socrates believed that objective patterns, or "forms," exist that define human excellence, that these are neither culturally relative nor subjective, and that philosophic inquiry could discover them. In the period after Athenian defeat in the Peloponnesian War, however, the political leaders did not want to be awakened; uncritical patriotism seemed to them what they and Athens needed. In an attempt to frighten Socrates away, they threatened to bring him to trial for "impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens." Socrates stayed and stood trial. In his Apology, Plato reconstructs his speech to the jury in defence of his beliefs. He was convicted and executed in 399 BC.
Socrates defined virtue as the state of wisdom by which an individual knows what is right and acts accordingly. He believed that true virtue is knowledge and that people do what they believe to be good, even if they are mistaken.
Socrates believed that true knowledge comes from self-inquiry and questioning one's beliefs. He engaged in dialogues with others to help them reflect on their assumptions and values, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of virtue. Through this process of philosophical inquiry, Socrates sought to uncover universal truths about virtue that are inherent in human nature.
Socrates believed that true knowledge leads to virtue. He argued that if individuals truly understood what is good and just, they would naturally choose to act in virtuous ways. Therefore, he believed that virtue arises from knowledge.
Socrates is considered the Father of Western Philosophy
Socrates questioned Athenians about their beliefs in order to challenge them to think critically and reconsider their assumptions. He wanted to uncover inconsistencies in their beliefs and provoke deeper reflection on the true nature of justice, virtue, and other concepts.
Socrates defined virtue as the state of wisdom by which an individual knows what is right and acts accordingly. He believed that true virtue is knowledge and that people do what they believe to be good, even if they are mistaken.
virtue
Socrates and jesus
Socrates believed that true knowledge comes from self-inquiry and questioning one's beliefs. He engaged in dialogues with others to help them reflect on their assumptions and values, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of virtue. Through this process of philosophical inquiry, Socrates sought to uncover universal truths about virtue that are inherent in human nature.
Socrates believed that true knowledge leads to virtue. He argued that if individuals truly understood what is good and just, they would naturally choose to act in virtuous ways. Therefore, he believed that virtue arises from knowledge.
Socrates is considered the Father of Western Philosophy
Socrates questioned Athenians about their beliefs in order to challenge them to think critically and reconsider their assumptions. He wanted to uncover inconsistencies in their beliefs and provoke deeper reflection on the true nature of justice, virtue, and other concepts.
Socrates believed that self-knowledge, questioning assumptions, and seeking wisdom were important for living a good life. He also emphasized the importance of virtue, ethical behavior, and acting in accordance with one's principles.
Socrates believed that virtue and knowledge were the keys to happiness. He argued that living a just and ethical life, and pursuing self-improvement through intellectual inquiry and self-examination, were the paths to true fulfillment and happiness.
Socrates believed that people were capable of achieving wisdom and virtue through self-examination and critical thinking. He also emphasized the importance of questioning commonly accepted beliefs and values to arrive at a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
Crito argues from a perspective of practicality and self-interest, advocating for Socrates to escape prison to avoid an unjust death. Socrates, on the other hand, focuses on principles of justice and upholding the laws of the city, even if they lead to his own death. Socrates prioritizes his commitment to truth and virtue over personal safety, while Crito emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm and seeking self-preservation.
Socrates' primary concern is with seeking truth and wisdom through dialogue and questioning. He believed in the importance of self-examination, encouraging individuals to challenge their own beliefs and values to lead a more examined life.