Socrates

Born in Athens around 469 BCE, Socrates remains an enigmatic figure as he left behind no writings of his own. What we know of his teachings and life primarily comes from the accounts of his students, most notably Plato. Socrates spent much of his life engaging fellow Athenians in public places, urging them to probe the authenticity of their beliefs. Using the Socratic method—a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue—he would challenge conventional wisdom and encourage critical thinking, making him both a revered teacher and a provocative figure.

Socrates' dedication to the pursuit of truth often placed him at odds with the prevailing sentiment of Athens. His skepticism of the Athenian democracy and his influence on the city's youth eventually led to his trial and subsequent execution in 399 BCE. Despite his tragic end, Socrates' legacy is monumental. His philosophical inquiries laid the groundwork for millennia of thought, inspiring countless thinkers and shaping the very foundation of Western philosophical tradition. His life, dedicated to introspection and the betterment of the soul, stands as a testament to the power of questioning and the relentless pursuit of truth.