Socrates, Chapter 3

Socrates

Who was Socrates and why was he important?

He was a majorly influential philosopher, shaping both Plato and Aristotle, praised for his intellect and character, being passionate yet self-controlled, plain-spoken yet brilliant

What was the most important goal in life according to Socrates?

Caring for one’s soul, that can only be nurtured through philosophical reflection, being harmed by doing wrong and helped by doing right

What is the Socratic Method?

A question-and-answer dialectic for applying critical thinking to statements that may seem out of reason’s reach, often showing beliefs to be incorrect or unfounded → e.g. Thrasymachus’ incorrect idea of justice

What is the reductio ad absurdum form?

The argument form in which a set of statements is assumed, and absurd or false statements are derived from the set, showing that at least one of the original statements must be rejected → form often taken by Socratic Method

How does Socrates see virtue?

Virtue is knowledge, to know a virtue is to have it since people naturally pursue good if they know what it is → not pursuing virtue is out of ignorance of good

What is a clear sign of an unhealthy soul for Socrates?

Pursuit of social status, wealth, power, and pleasure instead of the soul’s wellbeing

How is the good of the soul achieved according to Socrates?

Through uncompromising search for what is true and real, through the wisdom to see what is most vital in life

With what was Socrates charged?

Disrespecting gods approved by the state, acknowledging new gods, and corrupting the youth of the city

What was the result of Socrates’ trial?

He was tried before 500 jurors, most of which voted to convict him, sentencing him either to exile or death → Socrates chose death by poison, preferring death over having to leave Athens

How did Socrates defend himself in trial?

He denied the charges, contending that he did not teach metaphysics or try to make bad arguments look good, and that he actually did Athenians a favour with his arguments by turning their attention to the wellbeing of their souls