Doctor Socrates: Beyond Football - A Philosopher, a Legend

Chapter 1: The Man Behind the Player

Socrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira, better known as Doctor Socrates, was a true renaissance man. He was not only a brilliant footballer but also a qualified medical doctor and an outspoken philosopher. Born in Belém, Brazil, in 1954, Socrates grew up in a family that valued education and intellectual pursuits.

Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend

by Andrew Downie

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36860 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	377 pages

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From an early age, Socrates displayed a keen interest in both football and academics. He joined the Corinthians youth academy at the age of 14 and quickly rose through the ranks, making his professional debut for the club in 1974. Despite his success on the field, Socrates continued his studies at the University of São Paulo, where he earned a degree in medicine in 1983.

Chapter 2: The Philosopher on the Pitch

Socrates was known for his distinctive style of play. He was a gifted playmaker with exceptional vision, passing range, and technical ability. But beyond his technical prowess, Socrates was also a philosopher on the pitch. He was a vocal advocate for democracy and social justice, and he often used his platform as a footballer to speak out against the military dictatorship that ruled Brazil at the time.

Socrates's most famous act of protest came during the 1982 World Cup in Spain. After scoring a goal against Italy, he ran to the sideline and raised his fist in a Black Power salute, a gesture of solidarity with the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. This act of defiance made him an international icon and earned him the admiration of millions around the world.

Chapter 3: The Intellectual Beyond the Game

Socrates's intellectual pursuits extended far beyond football. He was a voracious reader and a keen observer of society. He was particularly interested in philosophy, history, and politics, and he often engaged in lively debates with his teammates and opponents alike. Socrates's intelligence and eloquence made him a respected figure in the intellectual community, and he was frequently invited to give lectures and appear on television shows to discuss his views on a wide range of topics.

Socrates's belief in the power of education was evident in his work off the field. He established several schools in Brazil and worked tirelessly to promote literacy and social inclusion. He was also a founding member of the Corinthians Democracy Movement, a political organization that advocated for democratic reforms in Brazil.

Chapter 4: The Legend Lives On

Socrates's career was tragically cut short when he died of a liver infection in 2011 at the age of 57. However, his legacy lives on, both as a footballer and as a philosopher. He is remembered as one of the greatest players of all time, and his intellect and activism continue to inspire people around the world.

In 2019, a book titled "Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend" was published, celebrating the life and legacy of this remarkable man. The book provides an in-depth look at Socrates's childhood, career, and activism, and features interviews with his family, friends, and teammates. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history of football, the power of education, or the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic figures in the world.

Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend

by Andrew Downie

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36860 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	377 pages

FREE