Weekly Response to Readings #1: Two Influential Sophists

This reading begins with a biography on some of the theories and occupations Gorgias was known for. His three-part formulation of skeptical philosophy is perhaps logical. However, when you base your theory of philosophy on the statement that nothing exists and we would have no means of communicating with it even if it did, you may be characterized as a cynic. Gorgias is possibly on major reason rhetoric has such a poor reputation nowadays in the academic world as he believed it to be a weapon designed to influence peoples susceptible and malleable minds so that he may make them his (figurative) slaves. Gorgias was also famous for his ability to ornament and eloquently use speech to persuade as opposed to using pure logic to prove his points. Rhythmic schemes and other elements of poetry were often employed by the rhetorician to put the audience in a trance and win them over more through dramatics than through fact.

Our second Sophist is believed by some to be the original Sophist. To prove this thought, Protagoras was the first Sophist to charge his audience for his speeches. Unlike Gorgias, Protagoras was known for practical and strategic approaches to rhetoric and persuasion. Protagoras was also an advocate for his students being able to argue for both sides of an issue. I particularly enjoyed this aspect of Protagoras’ philosophy because I can relate through my past experience as a member of the debate club in high school. When we went to competitions, we would be given issues and have to create arguments for both sides of the debate. Through this method, I can relate with Protagoras in understanding the importance of an objective outlook before attempting to win an argument (knowing both sides helps you learn the strengths/weaknesses of both cases).

The third Sophist mentioned in this reading is Isocrates. This Sophist is known for his amazing abilities to teach. Additionally, he was a leader in the community and pushed for moral standards in Athens. Isocrates is also well known for being a political theorist, both in writing political speeches, and teaching political theory to his students of rhetoric.

Our final Sophist in this reading is Aspasia. Aspasia, as a women in ancient Greece, had very few rights and was not recognized as a citizen. However, this did not keep her from being recognized as one of the most knowledgeable person around in politics, speechwriting, among other means.