What is sophistry?

Sophistry is a philosophical and rhetorical tradition that originated in ancient Greece and flourished in the 5th century BCE. It is characterized by the use of clever arguments and reasoning that often appear to be logical but are actually flawed or deceptive. Sophists were professional teachers of rhetoric and debate who taught people how to use persuasive language to win arguments and achieve their goals. They were often criticized for promoting relativism and skepticism, as they argued that truth and morality were subjective and based on personal perspective and cultural norms. Despite this criticism, the influence of sophistry can still be seen in contemporary politics, law, and media, where the use of persuasive language and argumentation is still a key part of winning debates and shaping public opinion.