THINK

 

 

 

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

 

Socrates

(470-399 BC)

 

 

 

Socrates was widely considered the founder of Western philosophy. His greatest student was Plato who offered perhaps the most accurate representation of Socrates dialogues.  Socrates was born in Greece, spent time as a soldier, and then became a part of Athenian society as a curious fellow.  He spent his time seeking conversations with whomever he could find.  He was ever a paid teacher and claimed, "he had nothing to teach."  Typically, Socrates would approach a person who claimed to know something of importance, and then he would challenge the person exhibiting the lack of knowledge of the other.

 

In 399 BC Socrates was put on trial for corrupting the youth of Athens.   In spite of his many dialogues, Socrates never wrote a book.  He was found guilty although he claimed innocence.   He was convicted and put to death by being forced to drink hemlock, a poison.  His last hours were spent gathered with friends and supporters documented by Plato.

 

Once again we find in history a person of significant source surviving even though generations have far surpassed this likelihood.  Socrates wrote dialogues impacting the learning experience of generations even though cultures shifted, wars destroyed, and natural disasters occurred.  It is indeed curious to me the founder of Western philosophy was put to death deliberately by being forced to sip hemlock.

 

Socrates gained his place in history through his words, articulating his spirit within even though it ultimately resulted in his death.  His recognition formed through his ability to encourage others in exploration of their own existence.  He challenged young men to think for themselves and to broaden their perspectives.

 

Socrates did not demand a following.  If anything, he was more prone to keep a smaller presence.  He did not force his insights onto others, but rather guided others to observe their own.  His message was clear, "THINK".