Socrates
Father of Philosophy...At Least In Writing
History
Socrates, the famous Greek philosopher, was born 470/469 BC in Deme Alopece, Athens. He is known cheifly as one of the main founders of western philosophy. He is mostly known through the accounts of his students, Plato and Xenophen. Plato's dialogues are some of the most detailed accounts of Socrate's philosophies, but it is not clear just how much Socrates is "hidden behind his 'best disciple'."
Ideas
Socrate's most important contribution to philosophy is known as the Socratic method or elenchus which applied moral concepts such as good and justice. The method consist of asking a series of questions to help a person understand their true beliefs and the extent of their knowledge. It was first described by Plato in the Socratic Dialogues.
Contribution to Society
Socrate's method of elenchus has a strong influence on today's scientific method, in which hypothesis is the first stage. He was also influential to hi students, who were also well known and renowned philosophers.
Socrates - Encyclopedia channel