Sophist and the Difference Between Immediate vs. Market-Mediated Generosity (Essay Sample)

1 What is a sophist? Why does Plato think sophistry threatens society? Do you think social media causes greater sophistry? Why?
A sophist is termed to be a teacher from Greece who argues cleverly an argument with points that are not true and yet the students are convinced. In fact, these are paid teachers, and they are referred to as sophists. Kerferd (2023, n.p) acknowledges that during the 5th century BCE, they were known for their skill in rhetoric, or the art of persuasive speaking, and they offered instruction in a wide range of subjects. With this retrospect, the Sophists focused on practical skills such as public speaking with others engaging in philosophical debates, and offering critiques of traditional Greek beliefs and values. The Sophists a times were often criticized for their relativistic views, which challenged the idea that there were objective standards of truth and morality.
Plato thought sophistry threatened society in that the Sophists were more interested in conquering arguments and persuading people to believe in their principles as opposed to seek truth and promote knowledge. They used their rhetorical skills to manipulate people's beliefs and opinions, rather than to educate them in the pursuit of knowledge and