Socrates' Defense and Philosophy

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary from Socrates' defense and philosophy as discussed in the lecture.

Socrates’ Starting Point

He downplays his abilities to highlight that truth is on his side.

Favor from Listeners

He asks for time to speak fully and use his usual style.

Attitude Toward Accusers

He accuses them of slander and unfair attacks.

Charges Against Socrates

Accused of claiming supernatural knowledge and misleading others.

Doubts of Athenians

He uses these doubts to show his divine mandate from Apollo.

Refuting the Oracle

Socrates proves the Oracle’s claim wrong by showing others are not wise.

Chaerephon and the Oracle

Chaerephon asks if anyone is wiser than Socrates, Oracle says no one is.

Poets’ Genius

Poets write with inspiration, not understanding. Socrates’ mission is to challenge ignorance.

Antecedent of "They"

Refers to Socrates’ students; they might face greater ignorance without him.

Key Passage Summary

Socrates emphasizes truth over life, using Achilles as an example.

Philosophy vs. Soldiering

Just as Socrates obeyed orders as a soldier, he must obey the divine command to philosophize.

Fear of Death

Fear of death is the pretense of wisdom, as people don’t know what death truly holds.

Courage, Obedience, God

True courage involves obeying both human and divine duties.

Socrates' Recognition of Listeners

He knows they need him to challenge their ignorance.

Primary Concern of Athenians

Their focus should be on improving their souls through wisdom.

Unjust Harm

His accusers might harm him, but their unjust action harms themselves more.

Gadfly Analogy

Socrates stirs the people of Athens like a gadfly stirs a sluggish horse

Dissonance

Dissonance means lack of harmony; Socrates hears divine guidance as

harmonious.

Acquittal vs. Indictment

Acquittal is a not guilty verdict, while indictment is a formal

accusation.

Politicians:

Socrates claims politicians who seek justice face opposition, while private

life allows more honesty.

Defiance vs. Conviction

Socrates' defiance might be off-putting, but his belief in

himself shows unwavering conviction.

Synonym for "Want"

“Lack” can replace “want” in the context of emotional

manipulation

Apophasis

Socrates brings up emotional appeals by denying them, making his refusal

more noticeable.

Judges Giving Justice as a Gift

Socrates rejects this because justice should be

impartial and not for personal gain.

Greek Court System

A fine is imposed if an accusation receives less than 1/5 of votes,

discouraging frivolous lawsuits.

Maintenance in the Prytaneum

His suggestion of public honor after conviction is seen

as arrogant and dismissive.