Philosophy - Week 2: "Sophists, Socrates"

Who were the Sophists?

traveling teachers in Ancient Greece who taught rhetoric and relativism

What did the Sophists believe about truth and morality

truth and morality are relative; they vary between culture and individuals

What was the Sophists' main goal in education

to teach persuasive speaking and success in civic life

How did the Sophists view virtue?

as a practical skill for success, not as moral excellence

Why were the Sophists controversial?

They were seen as manipulative and uninterested in truth or ethics

Who was Socrates?

An Athenian philosopher known for his method of questioning and pursuit of wisdom

What is the Socratic Method

a form of dialogue involving asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking

Why did Socrates question people?

to expose ignorance and seek genuine understanding

What did Socrates believe about knowledge?

True wisdom is knowing how little one knows

What analogy did Socrates use to describe himself?

A gadfly that stirs Athens from intellectual laziness

What did Socrates believe about morality?

morality is objective, and knowledge leads to good actions

What did Socrates believe was the source of evil?

ignorance, not intentional wrongdoing

What metaphor did Socrates use for his role in philosophy?

a midwife helping others give birth to knowledge

How did Socrates contrast with the Sophists?

He sought truth, not persuasion; valued virtue over success

What is Plato's Apology?

A recounting of Socrates' trial, where he defends his philosophy

What were the official charges against Socrates?

Corrupting the youth and not believing in the city's gods.

What were the unofficial (slanderous) charges against Socrates?

being a natural scientists and a sophist

Why did Socrates think he was on trial?

Because he embarrassed powerful men by exposing their ignorance

How did Socrates refute the corruption charge?

He argued that corrupting the youth would harm him too, which he wouldn't logically do

What was Socrates' view on death?

either a peaceful sleep or a chance to talk with great minds-both are blessings

Why did Socrates refuse to beg for his life?

he believed it was dishonorable and would undermine his message

What does Socrates say about fear of death?

it is a kind of ignorance-no one knows whether death is good or bad

Why did Socrates think the city should be grateful to him?

he helped others examine their beliefs and pursue wisdom

How did Socrates respond to the possibility of exile?

He rejected it, claiming he would continue philosophizing wherever he went

What is Socratic irony?

pretending ignorance to expose someone else's ignorance