'''Socrates''' (Greek: Σωκράτης, invariably anglicized as [ˈsɔkɹətiːz], Sǒcratēs; circa 470 BC–399 BC) was an ancient Greek [[philosopher]] who is widely credited for laying the foundation for Western philosophy, and is held as its most influential practitioner. The most important source of information concerning Socrates is [[Plato]]. Plato's dialogues portray Socrates as a teacher who denies having disciples, as a man of reason who obeys a [[divine]] voice in his head, and a pious man who is executed for the state's own expediency. Socrates disparages the pleasures of the senses, yet is excited by beauty; he is devoted to the [[education]] of the citizens of [[Athens]], yet indifferent to his own sons. | '''Socrates''' (Greek: Σωκράτης, invariably anglicized as [ˈsɔkɹətiːz], Sǒcratēs; circa 470 BC–399 BC) was an ancient Greek [[philosopher]] who is widely credited for laying the foundation for Western philosophy, and is held as its most influential practitioner. The most important source of information concerning Socrates is [[Plato]]. Plato's dialogues portray Socrates as a teacher who denies having disciples, as a man of reason who obeys a [[divine]] voice in his head, and a pious man who is executed for the state's own expediency. Socrates disparages the pleasures of the senses, yet is excited by beauty; he is devoted to the [[education]] of the citizens of [[Athens]], yet indifferent to his own sons. |