SOCRATES

Submitted by ub on

Socrates (469-399 BCE) was an Athenian philosopher and soldier considered the founder of Western philosophy. 

He didn't write anything himself, so what we know about him comes from his students and contemporaries, especially Plato. Socrates was a courageous soldier who fought in the Peloponnesian War as a hoplite, an armored infantryman. He was known for his fearlessness and fortitude in battle. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENkh8KftC2o

Plato's Apology is one of the most famous works of philosophy and world literature in general. It depicts the trial of Socrates, who was charged with impiety and corrupting the young, and sentenced to death for it. Instead of begging for mercy, Socrates gives a powerful defense of his practice of philosophy, and bravely argues that we should not fear death. Why was Socrates so hated? Why did Athens kill the man who the Oracle of Delphi said was the wisest of the Greeks? And why was Socrates not afraid of death? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-gyTgFjuIg

Strength isn’t about ignoring fairness—it’s about creating it.

Aristotle’s quote—“The weak are always anxious for justice and equality. The strong pay no heed to either.”—raises an uncomfortable truth:

- The weak demand fairness because they lack power.
- The strong, comfortable in their dominance, often ignore the need for equity.

But true strength isn’t about apathy. It’s about using your position to uplift others:

- Challenge unfair systems, even when they don’t affect you.
- Advocate for justice, even if it’s inconvenient.
- Be the kind of leader who builds equality instead of turning a blind eye.

The strong who care about fairness are the ones who shape a better world.