The Sophists, including Protagoras and Gorgias, were influential thinkers in ancient Greece known for their innovative ideas and rhetorical skills.

Protagoras (490-420 BCE)

1. Originating from Abdera in Thrace, Protagoras was a charismatic orator and the first to openly declare himself a sophist.

2. He introduced the idea that knowledge is relative to the knower, emphasizing the importance of individual perspectives.

3. Protagoras also pioneered the study of correct language usage and advocated for agnosticism regarding the gods.

Gorgias (483-375 BC)

1. Hailing from Leontini in Sicily, Gorgias was a student of Empedocles and known for his controversial views.

2. He is often criticized for his purported nihilist philosophy, while others praised his wisdom and eloquence.

3. Gorgias is credited with works such as "On the Nonexistent," "The Defense of Palamedes," "The Encomium on Helen," and "The Epitaphios."

Both Protagoras and Gorgias contributed to the sophistic movement's growth and influence, challenging traditional beliefs and paving the way for new perspectives in philosophy and rhetoric.

Relevance of Sophists

1. Legacy of Casuistry: Their name is now linked with clever reasoning used to support questionable arguments or defend things that can't be defended. This reputation for tricky argumentation continues in modern discussions.

2. Influence on Socrates and Plato: The Sophists' teachings had a significant impact on the philosophical developments of Socrates and Plato, shaping their views on ethics, rhetoric, and knowledge.

3. Monetary Value on Education: The Sophists were the first to introduce the concept of charging for education, establishing themselves as the first professional educators and laying the groundwork for modern educational practices.

4. Foundations of Rhetoric: They laid the foundations of rhetoric, which remains a vital skill in communication and persuasion to this day, influencing orators and communicators throughout history.

5. Revolutionary Ideas: The Sophists challenged traditional beliefs and dogma, promoting pragmatism and rejecting absolute truths. Their ideas continue to resonate in modern society, particularly in postmodern and social constructivist theories.

6. Accessibility of Ideas: Despite the antiquity of their teachings, the Sophists' ideas are accessible and engaging to modern readers, as they address universal human concerns and offer fresh perspectives on timeless issues.

7. Relevance to Contemporary Issues: Many phenomena observed in ancient times, such as urbanization and societal flux, mirror contemporary challenges. The Sophists' response to the uncertainties of their era remains pertinent in today's rapidly changing world.

8. Eternal Flux: The Sophists recognized the inherent flux and uncertainty of the world, a concept that resonates in the contemporary context where change is constant and unpredictable.

In essence, the Sophists' scepticism, practicality, and willingness to question orthodoxies make their teachings enduringly relevant in navigating the complexities of the modern world.