Final answer:
Socrates distinguished himself from the Ionian philosophers by his emphasis on moral truths over physical theories. His dialogues aimed to uncover ethical principles using reason, and he opposed the sophists' focus on rhetoric and success. Socrates's legacy is carried on through the written accounts of his students, primarily Plato.
Step-by-step explanation:
Socrates, the renowned Athenian philosopher, set himself apart from the Ionian philosophers by focusing on the pursuit of moral truths rather than on physical speculations. Unlike Ionian philosophers, who were known for their preoccupation with the nature of the material world, Socrates sought a deeper understanding of ethical concepts such as truth, beauty, goodness, and virtue. His method of inquiry involved rigorous dialogues in public spaces, where he would engage his fellow Athenians in discussions, questioning their beliefs to reveal their knowledge or lack thereof. Socratic dialogues exemplified this method, where through persistent questioning, one would be led to recognize one's own ignorance and inspired to seek true knowledge.
The essence of Socratic philosophy lies in its ethical dimension. Socrates initiated a shift from the natural sciences, which dominated pre-Socratic thought, to the exploration of ethical principles and the question, "What is the good?" using reason rather than belief or tradition. Known for never writing down his teachings, Socrates believed oratory and conversation were superior to written texts for conveying knowledge, a sentiment documented by his student Plato. This aversion to writing meant that Plato, and others like Xenophon, became the primary sources for Socratic thought.
Moreover, Socrates's critical approach to knowledge and philosophy led to confrontations with the sophists, who were more concerned with achieving success through persuasive speaking rather than seeking moral truth. Socrates was committed to the idea that there were concrete truths about morality and ethical behavior, obtainable only through self-examination and honest dialogue. This commitment ultimately led to his trial and execution, as he refused to abandon his philosophical pursuits—even in the face of death.