TEHRAN- A Persian translation of Brazilian journalist Andrew Downie’s 2017 book “Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend” has recently been published by Hamgu Publications in Tehran.

The book has been translated into Persian by Farnoush Jafari. 

"Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend" delves into the multifaceted life of Brazilian footballer Socrates, who transcended the boundaries of sports to become a symbol of resistance and social change. Born in 1954, Socrates rose to prominence as a talented midfielder for both the Brazilian national team and Corinthians, where he played a pivotal role in the club's successes in the 1980s. Known for his elegant playing style and astute tactical awareness, Socrates quickly became a fan favorite and earned a reputation as one of the most intelligent and talented players of his generation.

Beyond his accomplishments on the pitch, Socrates was also a vocal advocate for democracy and social justice in Brazil during a tumultuous period in the country's history. Through his involvement in the Corinthians Democracy movement, Socrates used his platform as a footballer to promote political awareness and encourage civic engagement among his fellow players and fans. His willingness to speak out on controversial issues endeared him to many and solidified his status as more than just a sports figure, but also a respected intellectual and activist.

In "Doctor Socrates," Andrew Downie captures the essence of a man who defied conventions and challenged stereotypes, both as a footballer and as a thinker. Through meticulous research and interviews with Socrates' friends, teammates, and family members, Downie paints a vivid portrait of a complex and charismatic individual whose influence extended far beyond the confines of the football field. The book not only celebrates Socrates' achievements as a player but also pays homage to his unwavering commitment to his principles and his unwavering belief in the power of sport to effect positive change in society.

Socrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira, known simply as Socrates, was born on February 19, 1954, in Belem, Brazil. Growing up, Socrates showed a natural talent for football and quickly made a name for himself with his creativity, vision, and tactical intelligence on the field. He began his professional career with Botafogo-SP before transferring to Corinthians, where he truly excelled. He was a key player in Corinthians' success in the 1980s, leading the team to victory in the prestigious Campeonato Paulista and the Brasileirao.

Socrates was not only admired for his prowess as a footballer but also for his intellectual pursuits and strong social conscience. He earned a medical degree while continuing to play professionally, earning him the moniker "Doctor Socrates." He was a vocal advocate for democracy and social justice in Brazil during a time when the country was under military rule. Socrates used his platform as a footballer to speak out against corruption and authoritarianism, becoming a beacon of hope for those seeking political change. His involvement in the Corinthians Democracy movement, where players were given a say in the club's decision-making process, showcased his commitment to empowerment and equality.

Throughout his career, Socrates played a total of 297 games for Corinthians, scoring 172 goals and leaving a lasting impact on the club and its fans. He also represented Brazil at the international level, earning 60 caps and scoring 22 goals. Despite never winning a World Cup, Socrates is fondly remembered for his contributions to the beautiful game and his unwavering dedication to using his platform for social good. His legacy as a footballer, philosopher, and activist continues to inspire generations of athletes and individuals striving to make a positive impact on the world.

SAB/