What philosophical group existed in the 5th century B.C.E. and included itinerant teachers?

The Sophists were a group of itinerant teachers in ancient Greece during the 5th century B.C.E. They were known for their skills in rhetoric and were often hired to teach young men the art of persuasion, critical thinking, and public speaking. Their approach to education was pragmatic, focusing on practical knowledge that could be applied to public life and politics.

Sophists emphasized relativism in morality and truth, suggesting that understanding and belief were subjective rather than absolute. This was a significant departure from earlier philosophical traditions, which sought universal truths. Their influence was felt in various aspects of Greek culture, especially in the realm of education and political thought.

In contrast, the other groups mentioned, such as the Academics, Stoics, and Epicureans, emerged later in history or had different philosophical focuses. The Academics, founded by Plato, centered around the pursuit of knowledge and ideal forms. The Stoics emphasized virtue and self-control as the paths to a good life, while the Epicureans focused on seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. These distinctions highlight why the Sophists are the correct answer to the question about itinerant teachers in the specified period.