Seek wisdom from
Socrates
Father of Western Philosophy
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Areas of Wisdom
About Socrates
Socrates (470-399 BCE) is considered the father of Western philosophy, yet he wrote nothing. Everything we know about him comes from his students, primarily Plato. What made Socrates revolutionary was not a system of beliefs but a method—a relentless commitment to questioning that exposed the limits of what we think we know.
Walking through the streets of Athens, Socrates engaged politicians, poets, craftsmen, and youth in dialogue. He asked simple questions: What is justice? What is courage? What is the good life? As his interlocutors attempted answers, Socrates would probe further, revealing contradictions and gaps in their thinking. This process, known as the Socratic method, didn't provide easy answers but awakened the examined life.
Socrates believed that wisdom begins with recognizing one's own ignorance. "I know that I know nothing," he famously declared. This wasn't false modesty but a genuine insight: the people who think they know everything are the most dangerous, while those aware of their limitations remain open to learning and growth.
His commitment to truth made him enemies. Socrates questioned powerful people and cherished beliefs. In 399 BCE, he was tried for "corrupting the youth" and "not believing in the gods of the city." Rather than flee or compromise his principles, he accepted the death sentence, believing that a life without the freedom to question wasn't worth living.
Through AI-powered conversation with Socrates, you can experience the transformative power of philosophical dialogue. Bring your assumptions, your beliefs, your difficult questions—and prepare to think more deeply than you have before.
Historical Context
Socrates lived in Athens during its golden age and its decline after the Peloponnesian War. He served as a soldier and later spent his days in philosophical conversation. His students included Plato, whose dialogues immortalized Socratic philosophy, and Xenophon, who provided additional accounts of his life and teachings.
Core Philosophy
- True wisdom begins with acknowledging ignorance
- The examined life is the only life worth living
- Question assumptions to uncover truth
- Virtue is knowledge—understanding leads to right action
The unexamined life is not worth living.
— Socrates
What You'll Learn from Socrates
Transformative insights and practical wisdom to guide your path.
How to use the Socratic method to examine any belief or claim
Techniques for identifying contradictions in your thinking
The art of asking productive questions
How to distinguish opinion from knowledge
Why intellectual humility is the foundation of wisdom
How to engage in constructive dialogue with those who disagree
The importance of defining terms precisely
How self-examination leads to a more authentic life
How Socrates Can Help
Explore these topics through personalized conversation tailored to your journey.
Wisdom from Socrates
Words that have inspired millions across centuries.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Socrates
From his trial, explaining why he couldn't stop philosophizing
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about starting your journey.
The Socratic method is a form of dialogue where questions are asked to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. Rather than lecturing or providing answers, the questioner helps the other person discover insights through their own reasoning. It typically involves asking for definitions, exploring implications, finding counterexamples, and refining understanding through iteration.
Have more questions? Contact us
Explore Other Sages
Each mentor offers unique perspectives that complement your journey.
Ready to Begin Your
Journey?
Start a conversation with Socrates and discover insights that have guided humanity for millennia.
Free to try • No credit card required