"Know thyself"

Speaker: Socrates

Socrates (circa 470 BCE - 399 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher, often regarded as the founder of ethics. He used the method of dialogue to lead people to recognize their own ignorance and encouraged the pursuit of true knowledge.

Explanation:

"Know thyself" is a famous saying by Socrates that emphasizes the importance of self-awareness. This phrase highlights the significance of acknowledging one’s own limitations and ignorance, and using that recognition as a starting point for continuous learning. Socrates believed that understanding oneself was the first step toward attaining true wisdom. This concept is deeply embedded in his entire philosophy, which encourages individuals to explore ethical living through self-reflection and self-criticism. Moreover, this saying can also be interpreted as a foundation for humans to examine their thoughts and actions in order to achieve self-improvement. Even in modern times, this phrase is widely cited in the fields of self-development and psychology, serving as a reminder of the importance of self-understanding and personal growth.