Why would philosophers start questioning traditional beliefs at this particular time in Athens' history?

5 answers

Which particular time?

Athens is over 4,000 years old.
Oops, sorry. Around 400 BC.
What was happening around 400 B.C. in Athens? How might that affect traditional philosophy?

http://www.anagnosis.gr/index.php?pageID=234&la=eng
Why would philosophers start questioning traditional beliefs at this particular time in history.
Why would philosophers start questioning traditional beliefs at this particular time in ancient greek history.