What role did Socrates see himself playing in an athenian society?

To understand Socrates' perception of his role in Athenian society, we can look to his own words and the accounts of his contemporaries, particularly the writings of Plato, who was Socrates' student and philosopher in his own right.

Socrates viewed himself primarily as a philosopher and a seeker of truth. His mission in Athenian society was to engage in critical inquiry and provoke thoughtful discussions. He believed that the pursuit of wisdom and self-knowledge was essential for the betterment of individuals and society as a whole. Socrates was known for his method of questioning known as the Socratic method, which aimed to stimulate critical thinking and challenge conventional beliefs.

In Plato's dialogues, Socrates portrays himself as a gadfly, a metaphorical insect that stings and provokes the horse (the Athenian state) in order to prevent it from falling into complacency or ignorance. By questioning widely-accepted opinions and engaging in philosophical dialogue, Socrates aimed to expose contradictions, uncover truth, and encourage his fellow citizens to think deeply about their beliefs and actions.

However, it is important to note that Socrates' activities eventually led to accusations of impiety and corrupting the youth, resulting in his trial and subsequent execution. Despite this, Socrates remained steadfast in his commitment to his philosophical mission and his role in Athenian society, unyielding in his pursuit of truth and moral inquiry.

Overall, Socrates saw himself as an unconventional philosopher with a social responsibility to stimulate critical thinking, challenge established beliefs, and promote intellectual and moral growth among his fellow citizens.