Plato's Apology: Socrates' Defense and Philosophy

Plato

A Greek philosopher, student of Socrates, and founder of the Academy.

The Apology

A work by Plato that records Socrates' defense at his trial.

Elenchos

A method of questioning that exposes contradictions in a person's beliefs.

Charges Against Socrates

Corrupting the youth and impiety.

Corrupting the youth

Teaching young people to question authority.

Impiety

Not believing in the gods of Athens and introducing new ones.

Socrates' Defense

He never forced anyone to follow him, believes in divine signs, and seeks truth.

Socrates' Danger to the City

He encourages questioning of traditions and threatens Athenian elites.

Socrates as a Gadfly

He keeps Athens awake and thinking, pursuing wisdom to improve society.

Socrates' Religious Beliefs

He believes in a divine voice that guides him, without traditional worship.

Socrates as a Good Citizen

He follows laws, fights in wars, and promotes virtue and wisdom.

Accusers' View of Socrates

He disrespects Athenian traditions and challenges democracy.

An Unexamined Life

Life without questioning and self-reflection has no real value.

Socrates' View on Life

Seeking truth and wisdom is the highest goal of life.

Analogy to the Gadfly

Athens is a lazy horse, Socrates is a gadfly that provokes critical thinking.

Moral Autonomy

Thinking and acting based on personal moral reasoning, not just tradition.

Socrates' Example of Moral Autonomy

He refuses to blindly follow Athenian customs and values truth over popularity.

Socrates' Suggested Punishment

He suggests he deserves free meals like an Olympic champion.

Socrates' Offer

Later, he offers to pay a small fine.

What Socrates Rejects

Exile and silence; he refuses to stop philosophizing.

Final Punishment

Death by poison (hemlock).