"Socrates recounts what had happened, after explaining what it is that he does.
"But Socrates, what is your occupation? From where have these slanders come? For surely if you did not busy yourself with something out of the common, all these rumors and talk would not have arisen unless you did something other than most people. Tell us what it is, that we may not speak inadvisably about you.' Anyone who says that seems to be right, and I will try to show what has caused this reputation and slander. Listen then. Perhaps some of you will think I am jesting, but be sure that all I shall say is true. What has caused my reputation is none other than a certain kind of wisdom. What kind of wisdom? Human wisdom, perhaps. It may be that I really possess this. Do not create a disturbance gentlemen, even if you think I am boasting, for the story does not originate with me, but I will refer you to a trustworthy source. I shall call upon the god at Delphi as witness to the existence and nature of my wisdom, if it be such. " (Apology 20 d-e, p. 20-21).
He clearly states that he possess something beyond the normal man, and that is wisdom. That is what he teaches, and because of his "wisdom, " which is the art of philosophical discussion and the strive for the virtuous life through that philosophy, he was persecuted and falsely accused. It would be simple to ask why Socrates did not adhere to the wishes of the Athenian citizens and just cease his philosophical discussion. If he ceased it would not impede his goal for the virtuous life, seeing how the virtuous life is just for him. That is where the problem arises. Already, as Socrates believes, he has a divine right for philosophy and it is his duty and moral responsibility now to possess that wisdom. If one were to analyze the virtues, it would seem that it is only for just one person. But no. In order to live a virtuous life, one must be able to share it with others.