The Sophists

Focusing on the pivotal figures of the Sophists and Socrates, this volume explores a significant shift in philosophical thought during the fifth century, emphasizing the transition from natural philosophy to human-centered inquiry. It highlights the contributions of thinkers like Protagoras and Gorgias, who challenged established norms of morality, religion, and knowledge, sparking critical debates. Their ideas prompted Socrates and Plato to defend traditional values, marking a transformative period in Athenian intellectual history. Each part is self-contained with updated bibliographies and indexes.