The philosopher Socrates was an ancient Greek thinker who lived from 470 to 399 BCE. He is often regarded as one of the founders of Western philosophy. Socrates is best known for his method of questioning, known as the Socratic method, which involves asking a series of questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. Socrates did not write down his teachings; instead, his ideas were recorded by his students, including Plato. He focused on ethics and the examination of moral concepts, emphasizing the importance of self-knowledge and virtue. Socrates was ultimately sentenced to death for allegedly corrupting the youth of Athens and impiety.