Socrates (/ˈsɒkrətiːz/;[2] Greek: Σωκράτης, Ancient Greek pronunciation: [sɔːkrátɛːs], Sōkrátēs; 470/469 BC – 399 BC)[1] was a classical Greek (Athenian) philosopher. 

Credited as one of the founders of Western philosophy.

Through his portrayal in Plato’s dialogues, Socrates has become renowned for his contribution to the field of ethics, and it is this Platonic Socrates who lends his name to the concepts of Socratic irony and the Socratic method, or elenchus. 

The Socratic method which derives from so crate remains a commonly used tool in a wide range of discussions, and is a type of pedagogy in which a series of questions is asked not only to draw individual answers, but also to encourage fundamental insight into the issue at hand. 

Socrates also made important and lasting contributions to the field of epistemology, and the influence of his ideas and approach remains a strong foundation for much western philosophy that followed.

Socrates initially earned his living as a master stonecutter. According to Timon of Phlius and later sources, Socrates took over the profession of stonemasonry from his father who cut stone for the Parthenon.

Socrates is reported as saying he devotes himself only to what he regards as the most important art or occupation: discussing philosophy.

Article taken from wikipedia…