Final answer:
C.C.W. Taylor offers a structured analysis of Socrates' life while Diogenes Laertius provides a compilation of assorted anecdotes, painting a broader, though less systematic, picture of Socrates' philosophical pursuits and personal life.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing C.C.W. Taylor's organization of Socrates' life with the work of Diogenes Laertius, we observe that Taylor likely provides a more structured and critical analysis of available sources, closely examining the reliability and philosophical implications of the narratives. Diogenes Laertius, on the other hand, delivers a more haphazard collection of anecdotes and stories in his biographies that convey miscellaneous information about Socrates, including philosophical viewpoints, personal quirks, and historical context. Despite its less systematic approach, Diogenes' work offers a unique glimpse into the life and character of Socrates that complements scholarly reconstructions of his philosophy.
Diogenes' biography contains various kinds of information about Socrates, such as his methods of inquiry, moral principles, engagement with other philosophers, and even day-to-day behaviors. Amidst this eclectic mix of tales and testimonies, one can discern the image of a man deeply committed to the pursuit of wisdom and virtue—one who challenged conventional thinking and influenced the development of Western philosophy.
In assessing the value of Diogenes' writings, it's important to recognize the context in which they were written and their aim at capturing the essence of Socrates' philosophic pursuits rather than strictly documenting historical facts.