Thrasymachus of Chalcedon

Thrasymachus of Chalcedon was an ancient Greek philosopher and rhetorician known mainly for his aggressive debates with Socrates, as depicted in Plato’s dialogues. He was a sophist who believed that justice is simply the advantage of the stronger—meaning those in power define what’s just to maintain their authority. Thrasymachus challenged traditional moral ideas, asserting that might and wealth often determine what is considered right. His ideas sparked ongoing discussions about power, morality, and the nature of justice, influencing both philosophical thought and political theory.