Socrates Biography
Occup. | Philosopher |
From | Greece |
Born | 469 BC Deme Alopece, Athens, Greece |
Died | 399 BC Athens, Greece |
Cause | Execution by Forced suicide by poisoning |
Early Life and Family Members
Socrates was born around 469 BCE in Athens, Greece. He came from a relatively moderate household, with his father, Sophroniscus, being a stonemason and also his mom, Phaenarete, a midwife. Although little is found out about his very early life, it can be presumed that Socrates got a fundamental Athenian education and learning and also might have been educated as a stonemason like his father.
He wed a female called Xanthippe, that was understood for her temperamental and argumentative nature. Together, they had three kids: Lamprocles, Sophroniscus, and also Menexenus. Considering that his sons were born when he was in his 50s or 60s, it is assumed Socrates married late in life.
Thoughtful Beginnings
Socrates did not initially pursue a profession as a philosopher. Rather, he served as a hoplite (foot soldier) during the Peloponnesian War, distinguishing himself in various armed forces projects, consisting of the Battle of Potidaea, the Battle of Delium, as well as the Battle of Amphipolis. Yet when Socrates was around the age of 40, his life took a turn towards approach.
His understanding into humanity as well as doubting the traditional wisdom of the time were deeply affected by theorists such as
Anaxagoras and
Heraclitus. Socrates was especially influenced by
Anaxagoras's focus on important thinking as well as rationality. Socrates later created his very own approach to ideology, focusing on an approach of doubting and discussion called the Socratic Method.
The Socratic Method and also Philosophy
The Socratic Method, also known as dialectic or elenchus, involves asking a series of concerns to stimulate important reasoning and develop a much better understanding of a topic. As opposed to promoting certain teachings or concepts, Socrates welcomed others to take part in dialogue, believing that real understanding might just be attained with self-reflection and also discourse.
Socrates did not compose any type of publications or essays; his method and ideas were given via his students' writings. Most notably, his trainee Plato wrote Socratic discussions, which stated discussions in between Socrates and others, going over different philosophical subjects, including ethics, principles, and the nature of understanding as well as wisdom.
Associates as well as Students
Socrates had a considerable influence on numerous theorists and also prominent Athenians of his time. His pupils consisted of the popular thinkers Plato and
Xenophon, both of whom blogged about their experiences with Socrates. His associations additionally consisted of Alcibiades, a famous Athenian basic as well as politician, as well as Critias, that later on became an essential figure in the high-handed government of the Thirty Tyrants.
Charges, Trial, and Execution
Socrates' unconventional ideas and also constant questioning of the well established standards agitated several Athenians. In 399 BCE, he was charged of impiety (not presenting holiness towards the gods) and damaging the youth of the city. Socrates was put on trial before a court of 500 Athenian citizens.
During the trial, Socrates safeguarded his beliefs and his practice of the Socratic Method by mentioning that he was a divine objective to aid others seek wisdom and also self-improvement. Nevertheless, he was found guilty as well as sentenced to fatality by consuming a dangerous mixture made from the hemlock plant.
Socrates' death penalty was performed in 399 BCE. His implementation was a turning factor in the background of ideology, as it indicated the rise of Plato and also the subsequent excellent philosophical period, known as the Athenian golden era. Socrates' life as well as trainings continue to be admired and inspire theorists, trainees, and thinkers worldwide.
Our collection contains 43 quotes who is written / told by Socrates, under the main topics:
Nature -
Wisdom -
Wedding.
Related authors: George Matthew Adams (Philosopher), Plato (Philosopher), Philo (Philosopher), Diogenes (Philosopher), Xenophon (Soldier), Alain de Botton (Writer), Roberto Rossellini (Director), Lawrence Taylor (Athlete), Anaxagoras (Philosopher), Aristotle Onassis (Businessman)
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