Socrates is one of the most mysterious and influential figures in the history of philosophy. His life and teachings left a deep mark on the culture of ancient Greece and laid the foundation for the development of Western philosophy. Although he left no written works of his own, his thoughts and ideas have survived thanks to his students, especially Plato. In this article, you will discover interesting and surprising facts about Socrates that you may not have known.
- Socrates left behind no writings, so all our knowledge of him comes from the accounts of his students, such as Plato and Xenophon. These accounts differ significantly, making it difficult to determine what Socrates was really like. In Plato’s dialogues, Socrates often serves as the main speaker, engaging in philosophical discussions.
- He was born around 470 BCE in Athens as the son of a stonemason and a midwife. His father, Sophroniscus, was a craftsman, and his mother, Phaenarete, delivered babies, which later became a metaphor for Socrates’ philosophical method. Although he came from a humble background, he achieved great fame and influence.
- He participated in several battles as a soldier and demonstrated courage and endurance. He fought in Potidaea, Delium, and Amphipolis. He was known for his resistance to cold and hunger, as well as his indifference to physical discomfort.
- Socrates considered himself to possess no knowledge but was aware of his ignorance. This belief was the starting point for his quest for truth through questioning. He claimed that wisdom begins with the recognition of one’s own lack of knowledge.
- He developed a philosophical method based on asking questions and conducting dialogues, now known as the Socratic method. It involves questioning to uncover hidden assumptions and reach deeper understanding. This method is still used in education and psychology.
- He led a very modest lifestyle, walked barefoot, owned no property, and did not seek wealth or political power. He was often seen at the agora, engaging people in conversations about moral and existential topics. He believed that every discussion could lead to the discovery of truth.
- His criticism of traditional values and influence on youth led to accusations of impiety and corrupting the citizens. In 399 BCE, he was sentenced to death by drinking poison made from hemlock. Despite the possibility of escape or renouncing his work, he chose to remain true to his beliefs.
- Socrates refused to flee Athens, even though he had the chance. He believed that laws must be obeyed, even if they are unjust. His death became a symbol of loyalty to truth and moral courage.
- He did not consider himself a teacher and never accepted money for his conversations. He emphasized that he was not teaching but helping others to discover the truth already within them. This approach had a huge influence on the development of later philosophy.
- Plato made Socrates the central figure in many of his dialogues, thus ensuring his immortality in philosophical tradition. In the Apology, Plato depicted Socrates’ final speech before the court. Socrates appears there as a martyr of truth and reason.
- Even philosophers who disagreed with him respected his logic and integrity. Aristotle recognized him as the first to shift focus from natural science to ethics. Thanks to Socrates, philosophy began to concentrate on the human being and the human conscience.
- In modern times, the figure of Socrates has inspired writers, thinkers, and activists. Voltaire, Rousseau, Leo Tolstoy, and many others saw him as a moral role model. His ideas remain relevant today in education, law, and ethical reflection.
- He is considered the founder of ethical philosophy because he was the first to speak about conscience, inner voice, and personal responsibility. He claimed to have a “daimon” or inner voice that warned him against bad decisions. This mystical element distinguished him from other thinkers of his time.
- Modern thinkers consider the Socratic method one of the best ways to develop critical thinking. It allows for analysis of assumptions and independent discovery of truth. In an age of information overload, this method helps people find genuine values.
These fascinating facts reveal Socrates as a man of exceptional moral courage and dedication to truth. His life and death remind us that the pursuit of truth often demands sacrifice, but it is always worth the effort. Socrates did not offer ready-made answers, but he taught others how to find them within themselves. Even today, he continues to inspire deeper thinking and a life of honesty.
