1.Introduction
Socrates (469 BC – 399 BC) is considered one of the most important figures in ancient Greek philosophy. Detailed information about his life is primarily recorded by his disciple Plato and other followers. These records provide significant help in understanding Socrates’ life and ideas.
Since Socrates did not write any texts himself, he left no direct works. Instead, his thoughts and methods were recorded by his disciples, such as Plato and Aristotle.
2. Life
Socrates was born in 469 BC in the city-state of Athens, ancient Greece. He came from a middle-class family, and his father was a sculptor. However, Socrates himself became deeply involved in philosophical inquiry and the exploration of human intellect from his youth.
Socrates valued interactions with people through dialogue and discussion from a young age. He engaged in conversations with various individuals to explore their opinions and develop his philosophical thoughts and methods. In this way, Socrates continued the pursuit of knowledge with his disciples.
Socrates became widely known among the public, and his distinctive philosophical methods and attitude influenced many people. However, his philosophical inquiries and subsequent actions sparked controversy among some authorities and prominent figures.
In 399 BC, Socrates stood trial along with his disciples, including Plato, engaging in daily conversations and disseminating his philosophy. However, his critical thinking and independent attitude were seen as a threat by some influential figures, and he was charged, particularly for corrupting the moral guidance of the public.
In 399 BC, Socrates faced trial due to the accusations brought against him. His trial stirred debates about the moral standards of the city-state of Athens, and instead of admitting guilt or offering an apology, he sought to maintain his philosophy. As a result, Socrates was sentenced to death and chose to end his life by drinking poison.
3. Philosophy
- Nous (Intellect): Socrates argued that human wisdom and success are achieved through self-knowledge. He introduced the concept of “nous” to emphasize intellectual awareness. Socrates believed that by knowing oneself, one can attain truth and wisdom.
- Socratic Method: Socrates valued questioning and dialogue as a means to induce critical thinking and arrive at logical solutions. Instead of asserting his own knowledge, he sought to understand the opinions and reasoning of others, uncovering evidence in the process to explore truth. This method, known as the Socratic method, enabled individuals to reflect deeply and think about themselves and the world.
- Ethical Inquiry: Socrates emphasized the exploration of ethical issues and the search for evidence. He examined human behavior and ethical values, seeking the ideal direction for a good life. Socrates emphasized the importance of moral values and wise actions, advocating for the pursuit of moral conduct and values for a better society and individual.
- Self-Reflection and Purpose of Life: Socrates stressed the significance of self-reflection. He explored the meaning and purpose of human existence, emphasizing the need to reflect upon oneself and engage in self-examination to lead a more meaningful life. Socrates believed that continuous self-improvement and learning, to acquire knowledge and grow, were crucial.
4. Relationship with Plato
Socrates and Plato are known as important figures in ancient Greek philosophy. Plato, as a disciple of Socrates, played a significant role in recording and developing his mentor’s ideas and methods. Understanding their relationship is crucial for comprehending Plato’s philosophical achievements in carrying forward and expanding Socrates’ philosophy.
Plato emphasized the teachings and dialogues of Socrates, making efforts to transmit Socrates’ ideas after his death. He wrote dialogues that encapsulated his own philosophical accomplishments while building upon Socrates’ philosophy and his method of inquiry. The most famous of these dialogues is known as “Plato’s Dialogues.”
Plato expanded upon Socrates’ ideas and explored various subjects, dedicating considerable effort to constructing philosophical ideologies and systems. Through works discussing ideal state systems, individual lives, and metaphysical concepts, he extended Socrates’ teachings. As a result, Plato developed his own philosophical system known as Platonic philosophy.
In addition to documenting Socrates’ ideas and methods, Plato also engaged in educating his own disciples, spreading philosophical thoughts to them. One of Plato’s notable disciples was Aristotle, who went on to wield significant influence in the history of philosophy.
The connection between Socrates and Plato involves a philosophical continuity, as Plato built his philosophical system on the foundation of Socrates’ teachings. Their relationship has had a profound impact on the development of ancient Greek philosophy and continues to be subject to research and discussion in the field of philosophy.
5. Evaluations
- Plato (427-347 BC): Plato, the most renowned disciple of Socrates, carried forward and developed his mentor’s ideas. He respected Socrates’ dialogues and philosophical inquiry method, considering Socrates as a significant philosophical inspiration. Plato’s works, particularly his dialogues that convey Socratic thoughts, are widely recognized.
- Aristotle (384-322 BC): Aristotle, a contemporary of Socrates, evaluated his philosophy. While acknowledging Socrates’ inquisitive attitude and logical thinking approach, Aristotle criticized Socrates for not providing clear answers to ethical questions.
- Epictetus (55-135): Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher from the Roman era, expressed great admiration for Socrates. He emphasized Socrates’ philosophical inquiry method and consistent actions, mentioning that he learned the importance of perseverance and moral training from Socrates.
- Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900): Nietzsche critically evaluated Socrates, considering him as a “philosopher of ressentiment” who suppressed individual creativity and freedom. Nietzsche argued that Socrates’ anthropocentric philosophy led to mysticism and the cultivation of herd morality. He regarded Socrates as a philosophical opponent in his own philosophical endeavors.
6. Interesting facts about Socrates
- Socrates was of small stature and had a typical snub-nosed appearance. However, he served as a hoplite infantryman in the Athenian army, participating in war campaigns on three occasions.
- Socrates was known for his eloquence. It was said that he could drink all night without getting drunk.
- Socrates possessed remarkable powers of concentration. It is said that he would stand in one place all night, lost in thought, even while walking.
- Instead of accepting payment for teaching his disciples, Socrates preferred to receive wine as compensation. This practice was known as a symposium.
- When Socrates was imprisoned, he had the opportunity to escape but chose not to violate the law and instead accepted death.