Socrates, the Annoying Master Conversationalist -Part1
Who was Socrates?
As a Greek, I cannot resist the urge to talk about philosophy. Those ancient dudes in robes are what makes me proud to be Greek to this day. Feta too..and gyro sandwiches..but that’s a different subject.
Where were we? Oh yes…philosophy!
The ideas of these diverse ancient thinkers left us with an abundance of Instagramable quotes to enhance our intellect with.
In this article, I will single out my favorite figure amongst all. Socrates.
What we know about him is based on the writings of his students, Plato and Xenophon, as Socrates wrote nothing himself. These writings lack consistency, which therefore makes getting a clear picture of his life and ideas difficult.
Agreed upon, is the fact that Socrates was a distinct, controversial figure of his time.
Socrates did not believe in the traditional Greek gods of the Olympus. He believed in a more abstract and philosophical existence of a deity as a concept of God. He often referred to it as a “divine voice” guiding his life and thought. He presented that the gods are wiser than us, and that humanity should follow their guidance instead of creating gods like those of Homer and Hesiod. He argued that those are stories told by people to explain the world around them.
As this belief challenged the conventional wisdom of his time, Socrates was put on trial with accusations of impiety and corruption of the youth, which led to his execution by poisoning.
However, he earned and still holds the title as one of the most influential philosophers in history.
Some of his “catchy” teachings are related, but not limited to, knowledge and thinking.
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” Basically, don’t be a “know-it-all”. There is always more knowledge out there to acquire. Just be open to it.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” In other words, always question your beliefs and values and research for more available information. Do your self-reflection and never take anything for granted.
“The only good is knowledge, the only evil is ignorance.” This quote is the exact opposite to “Ignorance is Bliss”. Socrates describes ignorance as Dangerous and claims that those who seek knowledge are a step closer to happiness and fulfillment.
There are so many other valuable teachings that would make this article way longer than I anticipate it to be if I was to mention.
But…! You know that quote, number one in the Top charts for promoting kindness?
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
Yes, he said that one too!
Please join me on Part 2, where I’m explaining my all-time favorite, the most despised, the most annoying way to have a conversation!!!
The Socratic Method👇
