Greek empire was taught by a group of teachers who were collectively labeled as Sophists. One of the leading Sophists was Protagoras, who is credited with the following quote: "man is the measure of all things". Implicit in this statement is that there are no absolutes. The measure of truth and justice differs from time to time and person to person.
Noted Greek philosopher, Socrates, also lived during this time. His opponents, the Athenians, who included those in leadership, labeled him with the nickname "the gadfly". His persistent questioning served to inspire friend and foe alike to question how one arrived at the truth, thus earning the moniker. He was credited with having a profound influence on the disciplines of epistemology (study of knowledge) and logic.
Socrates' contemporaries in leadership did not view him as the historic legend, he would later become. They arrested him in 399 B.C. with charges of corrupting the youth of the city by teaching them to question the decision-making process of those governing. He was convicted and condemned to death by poisoning, refusing a life of exile for several reasons:
1. Fleeing would reflect fear of death which would contradict his own teachings.
2. His propensity to irritate those governing with insightful questions would make him a enemy wherever else he chose to live.
3. Fleeing the judgment against him would contradict his own teachings, and would be tantamount to undermining social order.
What can be learned from this?
1. Any leader who rejects and objects to any questions about his decision making has the potential to be the proverbial "fool caught in his folly". He will be more dangerous than a mother bear defending her cubs.
2. See #1.
