About Socrates (469–399 BCE):
He was a mentor of Plato and known as the “Father of Western Philosophy.”
He did not write any texts — his ideas are known through the works of Plato and Xenophon.
He lived a simple, principled life and was executed by being forced to drink hemlock, a poisonous plant, for allegedly corrupting the youth of Athens and impiety.
Core Ethical Teachings of Socrates:
1. Ethics as Central to Life:
Socrates believed that “An unexamined life is not worth living.”
He also believed that moral inquiry is the most important task of human life.
Ethics is not about external rules but about self-examination and moral reasoning.
2. Socratic Method of living:
He encourages a method of asking probing questions to stimulate critical thinking and expose contradictions.
He encourages self-awareness and ethical clarity, useful for civil servants in decision-making.
3. Virtue is Knowledge:
Socrates argued that all virtues (justice, courage, wisdom) are forms of knowledge.
Ethical conduct arises from understanding what is truly good.
4. Moral Integrity and Conscience:
Socrates emphasized following one’s conscience even against public opinion or authority.
He refused to escape from prison before his execution, as it would have violated his principles.
5. Duty to Society:
Socrates believed in active citizenship and responsibility toward society.
He practiced ethics not just in speech but in public life, vital for ethical governance.
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