May 1, 2024
Updated May 10, 2025
19 minute read
Socrates was a classical Greek philosopher credited as one of the founders of Western philosophy, and as being the first moral philosopher of the Western ethical tradition of thought. An enigmatic figure, he authored no texts, and is known chiefly through the accounts of classical writers writing after his lifetime, particularly his students Plato and Xenophon. These accounts are in the form of dialogues, which recount discussions between Socrates and his interlocutors. This gave rise to the Socratic dialogue literary genre. Despite the difficulty of distinguishing the historical Socrates from the portrayals by these writers, his influence is undeniable.
lanu86|
Find a path to becoming a Socrates. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/lanu86/socrate
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Socrates.
This influential work examines Socrates' method of questioning and its significance for understanding his philosophy. Vlastos argues that Socrates' dialogues are not simply exercises in intellectual inquiry but are also a means of ethical and spiritual transformation.
This collection of essays provides a comprehensive overview of Socrates' life and thought within the broader context of ancient Greek philosophy. Rowe explores Socrates' relationship to the Sophists, his influence on Plato and Aristotle, and his enduring legacy in Western thought.
This comprehensive guide provides a wide-ranging overview of Socrates' life and thought. Scott brings together leading scholars to explore Socrates' philosophy, his method of questioning, and his impact on Western culture.
This engaging biography provides a lively and accessible introduction to Socrates' life and ideas. Stone brings Socrates to life, exploring his personality, his relationships, and his enduring legacy as the father of Western philosophy.
This insightful work explores Socrates' use of controversy as a tool for philosophical inquiry. Irwin argues that Socrates deliberately provoked controversy in order to challenge his contemporaries' beliefs and encourage them to think more deeply about the world around them.
Examines the logical structure of Socrates' dialogues. Vlastos argues that Socrates' method of questioning is based on a rigorous logical framework that allows him to expose the contradictions in his opponents' arguments.
Examines Socrates' views on time, knowledge, and virtue. Schwartz argues that Socrates believed that the unexamined life is not worth living and that it is essential to constantly question our beliefs and assumptions in order to live a virtuous and meaningful life.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/lanu86/socrate
Save
