Few figures have been more important and influential in the history of civilization than the ancient Greek philosopher
Socrates. And it's not simply that he was a philosopher either. Despite the importance of the intellectual contributions made by his predecessors, and despite the vast differences between them (just think Thales, Anaximander, Pythagoras, Parmenides, Heraclitus, Democritus, etc.), virtually all philosophers who preceded him were ultimately consigned to the category of
Pre-Socratics.
So what exactly was so special about Socrates that it would be he, and not any of his forerunners, who would be generally recognized to be the first master of philosophy? Well, for today's installment, historian
Bettany Hughes brings her usual charm, passion and humanity—not to say anything about her lovely British accent—to bear on the importance and influence of this great, unique and fascinating thinker.
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