In what way did Socrates claim to be wiser than all men?

Socrates claimed to be wiser than all men primarily because he was aware of his own ignorance, a realization famously encapsulated in the phrase "I know that I know nothing." This acknowledgment of his limitations in knowledge is a crucial aspect of his philosophical stance. Socrates believed that many people thought they possessed knowledge, yet were unaware of their own ignorance. In contrast, his admission of not knowing allowed him to engage in the pursuit of wisdom and understanding.

This philosophical humility is significant because it reflects a foundational view that true wisdom begins with an awareness of one's own lack of knowledge. By recognizing this, Socrates positioned himself in a unique way within the realm of wisdom, as he valued the process of questioning and seeking knowledge over the mere accumulation of information. This distinction set a precedent in philosophical thought, emphasizing the importance of critical reflection and the continual pursuit of truth.