Socrates, the classical Greek philosopher, was charged with and later executed for corrupting young people and for impiety against the Athenian gods. What Socrates really did, though, was challenge people’s thinking.
The Oracle of Delphi, a religious figure revered for her wisdom, was asked if she knew anyone wiser than Socrates.
The oracle replied that no one was wiser.
When Socrates learned of this statement, he was puzzled. He did not consider himself wise. On the other hand, the oracle would not be mistaken.
In order to determine what the oracle meant, Socrates talked to other Athenians—to ask them questions about themselves. In these discussions, Socrates discovered that people were far from being the authorities they were supposed to be. … >>>
READ MORE >>> →