Metrodorus of Stratonicea

Metrodorus of Stratonikeia, a philosopher from Caria, initially adhered to the Epicurean school of thought. However, he later shifted his allegiance to Carneades, a defection that was considered quite unusual within the philosophical landscape of the time. According to Cicero, this change in allegiance stemmed from Metrodorus' interpretation of Carneades' skepticism not as genuine doubt, but as a tactical approach to engage and refute the Stoics on their own philosophical ground. Metrodorus believed that Carneades, despite his skeptical method, remained a loyal follower of Plato's philosophical tradition. Cicero also described Metrodorus as a highly gifted orator, possessing great passion and fluency in his speech. He was active around 110 BC.