Discover 30 Inspirational Quotes from Socrates

Did you know that Socrates is one of the greatest thinkers in history, famous for his phrases that still inspire us today?

O philosopher Greek left lessons that have transcended the centuries and continue to enlighten our path.

In this article, we'll explore some of his most striking phrases, reflect on his ideas and discover how to apply his wisdom in our lives.

30 Inspiring Quotes from Socrates

Sentence	Credit and Context
“I only know that I know nothing.”	Reported by Plato in Apology of Socrates (399 BC).
“Know thyself.”	Inscription in the temple of Delphi attributed to Socrates.
“An unexamined life is not worth living.”	Taken from Apology of Socrates (399 BC).
“True knowledge comes from within.”	Mentioned in Socratic dialogues.
“Don't do to others what you wouldn't want them to do to you.”	Reported as part of his ethical lessons.
“The secret to happiness is not to seek more, but to develop the ability to enjoy less.”	Attributed to his teachings on simplicity.
“True wisdom comes from recognizing one's own ignorance.”	Interpreted by Plato in Theaetetus.
“Those who have a lot are not rich, but those who need little.”	Teachings preserved by his disciples.
“Beware of the sterility of a busy life.”	Contextualized in its philosophical debates.
“Those who want to change the world must first change themselves.”	Preserved in oral tradition.
“Educating is lighting a flame, not filling a pot.”	Concept reported by Plato.
“Nothing is enough for those who have too little.”	An emblematic phrase about desire and satisfaction.
“The greatest way to live honorably in this world is to be who we pretend to be.”	Preserved in classic accounts.
“We don't learn from school, we learn from life.”	Contextualization in practical philosophy.
“I prefer wisdom to gold.”	Reproduced in ancient philosophical texts.
“An intelligent man learns from everyone.”	Quoted in Socratic Reflections.
“Those who truly seek the truth do not fear it.”	Preserved on site Phaedo.
“Be kind, because everyone is fighting a difficult battle.”	Reflection on empathy.
“The virtue is an acquired skill.”	Taken from Ménon.
“Asking is the beginning of wisdom.”	Idea registered by his followers.
“The greatest wealth is to live contentedly with little.”	Preserved in Plato's accounts.
“Time is the most precious resource.”	Teaching about priorities.
“The mind is everything; what you think, you become.”	Reflection on the power of thought.
“To find yourself, lose yourself in service to others.”	Attributed to his life ethic.
“Freedom lies in courage.”	Contextualized in the debates on virtue.
“Choose what's right, not what's easy.”	Preserved in philosophical discussions.
“Every act of kindness is an expression of greatness.”	Contextualization in Socratic morality.
“Education is the basis of freedom.”	Teaching attributed to the philosopher.
“A virtuous heart is the greatest treasure.”	Reported in Greek oral tradition.

Conclusion

Socrates inspires us with his timeless wisdom and his tireless search for the truth. May these phrases serve as a reminder to live with simplicity, integrity and reflection.

Call to action: Want more inspiring messages? Visit our blog at Messages That Inspire and continue exploring the wisdom of the great thinkers. Also check out this article on philosophy at Classical Philosophy.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Socrates