Sophists

Sophists were ancient Greek teachers and philosophers who emerged in the 5th century BCE. They specialized in rhetoric, the art of persuasive speaking, and taught techniques for success in public life. Unlike traditional philosophers seeking absolute truths, sophists believed truth could be relative and depended on perspective. They often challenged conventional wisdom and engaged in debates, emphasizing the importance of argumentation. Their methods sometimes drew criticism for prioritizing winning arguments over seeking genuine understanding. Key figures among them include Protagoras and Gorgias, who explored concepts of knowledge, morality, and human experience.