Trial of Socrates
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San Diego State University *
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120
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Philosophy
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Jan 9, 2024
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docx
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Uploaded by GeneralHorse3470
APOLOGY (TRIAL OF SOCRATES)
1.
FROM THE EUTHYPHRO
One of Greek philosopher Plato's earliest dialogues is the Euthyphro. A young man named
Euthyphro who professes to know about the divine engages in conversation with Socrates. The
conversation starts when Socrates runs into Euthyphro outside the courthouse. Euthyphro
explains to Socrates that he is coming to bring a murder case against his own father, contending
that it is his responsibility to do so.
The Euthyphro is important because it poses fundamental queries about what constitutes piety
and how gods and morals interact. The conversation emphasizes how difficult it is to define
abstract ideas like piety as well as the limits of human knowledge. Euthyphro's presumptions
are questioned using Socrates' style of questioning in order to highlight the value of critical
thinking and self-reflection in the search of knowledge.
The Euthyphro is an overall stimulating discussion that addresses significant issues with regard
to ethics, religion, and the nature of knowledge. It exemplifies Socrates' dedication to the search
for the truth as well as his conviction that it is crucial to raise doubts about presumptions and
contest received wisdom.
2.
FROM THE APOLOGY (TRIAL OF SOCRATES)
The philosopher Socrates was put on trial for impiety and for corrupting the Athens youth in
Plato's philosophical work The Apology. In the dialogue, Socrates mostly defends himself by
outlining his philosophical principles and answering the accusations.
The first thing Socrates does is deny the accusations made against him, insisting that he is
innocent of them. He contends that his quest for knowledge and the truth through inquiry was
done for the benefit of the gods, not in opposition to them. Additionally, he asserts that he did
not corrupt the children but rather tried to instill in them the values of virtue and critical
thinking.
Finally, Socrates is judged guilty and given the death penalty. Despite the conclusion, Socrates is
unwavering in his adherence to his beliefs, and his defense is a potent illustration of his
commitment to the search for knowledge and wisdom. The Apology is a monument to Socrates'
reputation as a philosopher, and his unyielding devotion to his convictions has motivated
countless philosophers and academics throughout history.
3.
FROM THE CRITO
Plato wrote a dialogue called The Crito in which Socrates is imprisoned and awaiting his death.
When his friend Crito pays him a visit, he provides him with a way out. Socrates, however,
declines the offer and instead has a philosophical conversation with Crito about the nature of
justice and the significance of abiding by the law.
Socrates contends that because he has lived under and benefited from state laws his entire life,
he cannot just ignore them now that they are not to his advantage. He also contends that he
must respect government decisions, even if they are unfair.
In response, Crito argues that Socrates should follow his conscience and do what he feels is right
because the views of the majority are not always true. In response, Socrates claims that his
conscience has convinced him that he should uphold the law and that breaking it would be
wrong.
In the end, Socrates chooses not to flee and instead consents to his demise after consuming
hemlock. He feels that by abiding by the law and taking his punishment, he is acting morally and
defending the ideals of justice.
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