Socrates' Philosophies

Throughout most of the dialogues ("Euthyphro," "Crito," the majority of "Phaedo"), Socrates' words and philosophies seem to be less about his own beliefs than they are about shaping, defining, and clarifying the beliefs of others. The "Apology" is a defense, and as such incorporates a degree of explanation of what his beliefs are, but only in "Phaedo" is there a relatively explicit portrayal of what Socrates says he believes and understands about existence (always keeping in mind, however, the possibility that Plato is putting his own theories into the mouth of his mentor). Two of his key philosophies explored in "Phaedo," both relating to the question at the forefront of his mind and the minds of his followers (the nature of death) are briefly explored below. A third key philosophy actually defines one of the central themes explored throughout the "Dialogues" and is discussed in "Themes - The Theory of Absolutes."