Gorgias was a Greek Sophist (l.c. 427 BCE) who taught the art of persuasive public speaking and claimed that nothing exists. He may have established sophism.

What was Gorgias' philosophy?

Gorgias claimed nothing existed or, if it did, it could not be understood or, if understood, could not be communicated to others.

Where was Gorgias born?

Gorgias was born in the Greek colony of Leontini, Sicily.

Who was Gorgias influenced by?

Gorgias was influenced by Empedocles, Parmenides, and Zeno of Elea.

Gorgias

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Definition

Gorgias (l. c. 427 BCE) was a Greek Sophist and philosopher, considered the greatest Rhetorician of his day. He is said to have created several aspects of public speaking still in use and to have mastered the art of persuasion, commanding high prices to teach it to others. He is best known today from the Platonic dialogue Gorgias.

More about: Gorgias

Timeline

c. 427 BCE
Gorgias the Sophist arrives in Athens as part of a delegation from Leontini, Sicily; the only known date of his life.