Isocrates, "Against the Sophists"
             Human beings seem to possess an innate quality that drives them towards happiness. Humans have sought after the concept of happiness for as long as they have existed, and by as many means as one can imagine. One idea for gaining happiness that may appear to be very modern actually seems to date back to Fourth Century BC. The idea that "with knowledge comes power, with power comes wealth, and with wealth comes happiness" was at the very root of the Sophists' teachings. In "Against the Sophists" Isocrates makes, what has been referred to as, "the first strike against education methodology." Isocrates focuses on motive, as well as method, as he attacks aspects of the Sophists' methods of education, which promised happiness. As one examines the essay, it becomes apparent that many of the problems with education, that Isocrates identifies, still exist today. Perhaps education reform is a battle as never-ending as the search for happiness.
             Isocrates begins his attempt to break down the Sophists' credibility as educators by immediately calling into question their integrity. Although Isocrates supports education, he does not believe one should attach to it promises of a greater life. He argues that if all educators "were willing to state the facts instead of making greater promises that they can possibly fulfill, they would not be in such a bad repute with the lay-public"(1). The Sophists promised their public great rewards if only they would allow themselves to be educated. This is an issue that, obviously, still exists today. Education does, in some instances, make greater one's opportunities, but it can never ensure one's happiness. There are many very educated individuals, who are, in many ways, lost in the world. On the contrary, some of the happiest and most self-fulfilled individuals have never stepped foot ...