Socrates 470 BC–399 BC
Greek Philosopher
Socrates wanted to make people think. In his search for the truth, he always asked tough questions and demanded that an opinion be supported by a strong argument. He taught many Greeks to lead moral lives. Because Socrates believed that lying was wrong he said, “False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil.”
As a young man in Greece, Socrates studied sculpture, which was his father's profession. Socrates decided to become a philosopher. He made an impact on many people, challenging their minds with what became known as the Socratic method. The Socratic method is a technique in which a series of questions are asked so that through discussion a person can reach his or her own conclusions. Socrates inspired others to pursue philosophy. He influenced well-known philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle.
Nearly 2,500 years after Socrates' death, his ideas are still being taught and discussed. Very few historical figures have affected people's thinking as much as Socrates.
Critical Thinking
What do you think might be one advantage and one disadvantage of using the Socratic method?