In a way, this quote marks the beginning of skepticism in Western philosophy. Were there skeptics before Socrates? Yes, of course, but history is about recognition of events that withstood the test of time. During Greco-Roman times, Socrates and this quote from 399 BCE represents the early roots of skepticism before it was formalized into Skepticism by Pyrrho a few decades later.
This content was drawn from chapter 8 of “30 Philosophers.” The chapter is titled “Plato and Rationalism” and in telling the story of Socrates and his student Plato, I introduce the Eastern concept of illusion into the West with Plato’s Allegory of the Cave. In a section titled “The Unexamined Life,” I use the quote.
According to Socrates, an individual must actively engage in self-reflection and reflective inquiry to lead a meaningful life. The idea is that if you don’t understand nature, you cannot live in harmony with it. He believed that by examining your beliefs, you can better understand yourself and the world. This process allows you to change your prejudices, make informed decisions, and cultivate moral and intellectual virtues.
In Plato’s “Apology,” Socrates defends himself against the charges of corrupting the youth and impiety by stating that his mission is to question and challenge the assumptions of his fellow Athenians. He claims that this mission was given to him by the Oracle at Delphi.
For more, including the counter position of “Ignorance is Bliss,” read chapter 8.