Socrates (The World of Philosophy)

Though he left no written works Socrates was the first great philosopher of the West.
His conversations and dramatic death in ancient Athens were recorded by a number of writers (including Plato); they show that Socrates was deeply interested in self-knowledge and virtue.
Socrates also believed in the rule of law even refusing to flee when he was condemned to death. His ceaseless questionings have set timeless standards for the relentless pursuit of truth.