Socrates & Greek philosophy, origins of scientific thinking

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The Roman Stoic philosopher Cicero once said that Socrates... “..Wrestled philosophy from the heavens and brought it down to Earth.”

One could say he was a sort of Prometheus - taking fire from the gods and giving it to humans, thus giving them the tool to determine their own destiny.

Prior to Socrates, Greek philosophy consisted primarily of metaphysical or scientific questions, such as: Why does the world stay up, suspended in space? Is the world composed of one substance or many substances?

But living amidst the horrors of the Peloponnesian War, where Athens had lost to Sparta, Socrates was more interested in essential existential, ethical and social issues: What is the best way to live? Why be moral when immoral people seem to benefit more? Do the rich live better than the poor? Is happiness about satisfying one’s deep desires or is it about being good and acting with honor?

According to Socrates, examining oneself, our motives and actions, is the most important task one can undertake.

Self-observation alone, will give us the knowledge necessary to answer the question ‘How should I live my life?’

​In today's video we listen to a discussion that recently was moderated by me about Socrates. I hope you find it interesting and useful.
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From Athens,Greece, This is Alkistis, TAKE CHARGE 
The Stoic Society of Athens, organizes such discussions on a regular basis.