Wisdom and Excellence In Plato's Apology, Socrates made many bold and thought-provoking statements that lead the reader to interpret them in their own terms. He declared: “I will probably be wiser. . . to this small extent, that I don't think I know what I don't know” (21d). Later, Socrates went on to say: "I do nothing but persuade young and old among you not to take care of your body and your riches in preference or with the same force as to the best possible state of your soul" (30a-B) . These statements and how they support each other can only be understood by analyzing what wisdom, excellence is, and who is suited to teach them to others. First, the idea of ​​wisdom brought to light by Socrates is one of the most difficult, yet crucial, ideas to define and understand. After receiving the prophecy from the Oracle of Delphi, Socrates said, "I am not wise at all" (21b). In the text he describes his journey to prove the oracle wrong and the knowledge that came with it. As Socrates questioned men from all walks of life, including politicians, poets, and craftsmen, he came to the conclusion; “Human wisdom is worth little or nothing” (23a). Like so many others, Socrates faced the unnecessary battle in which some argue points or try to teach others things they know nothing about. Wisdom is not having knowledge in all things but understanding yourself and the knowledge you have. In society, many people are considered wise either because they have a certain title or because of their age. Yet, no one can know everything. It is not a lack of wisdom to have only minimal knowledge on multiple topics. However, it is ignorant and irresponsible to talk about or even attempt to teach another about a topic... middle of paper... something that is worthwhile to young people. Instilling in the future, in their youth, the anxiety to look within and not to strive to acquire wealth or worldly possessions, but rather to grow as men. Without the ability to analyze their own ideas and beliefs, they could not hope to improve themselves and the population as a whole. Only by understanding what wisdom, excellence, and who embraces the attributes needed to teach these ideas can one understand how each of Socrates' statements were to build upon each other. It is these ideas of growth in the goodness of the soul and through understanding oneself each person can hope to truly grow as an individual. If all people would strive to grow and focus on looking within themselves instead of at the material world around them, then society and the world can truly grow and become a place of truth and justice..