Socrates (470–399 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher widely considered to be one of the most important figures in Western philosophy. He was born in Athens and is known mainly through the writings of his students, especially Plato. He is most famous for his method of inquiry and questioning, called the Socratic method. This method was designed to stimulate critical thinking and seek truth, and many of his teachings, written by Plato, are narrated in this form.