Socrates

Human Nature

Socrates believed that people can lead good lives by understanding their true nature, desires, and limitations. He thought that people should live examined lives, questioning their beliefs and values. 

Nature of Politics

Socrates was concerned with the quality of political discourse and action, and he believed that wisdom was essential to good politics. He criticized Athenian democracy for its political practices and the judgments of its citizens. He also believed that democracy could be dangerous when demagoguery took hold. 

Demagoguery- a political leader who seeks support by appealing to the desires and prejudices of ordinary people rather than by using rational argument.

Role of State

Socrates believed that the state should be guided by justice, wisdom, and the common good. He believed that laws should be based on moral principles and that citizens should question the actions of the state. He thought a just state should look out for everyone, making sure there's stability, peace, and prosperity.

Best Form of Government

Well educated leaders working with philosophers.

Ancient Athens-positive and negative aspects of democracy

Positives

-random selection: Jury: (prevent bribery) - equality

-mandatory participation= Duty / *secret ballot*

-efficacy = you matter/make a difference

-freedom of expression=freedom of speech

*anyone could rule: rotation

Negatives

-Short-term = no expertise

-We are not all fit to rule

-Women = no participation - inequality + oppression

-Slaves = 1/3 (population) *Majority rules vs. Minority??

*Charisma* persuasion

Charges against Socrates and his defense

1. Impiety: challenging the Gods

2. Corrupting the youth

   Trail: 500 Jury

   His Defense (The Apology *Not an apology)

Reward me for questioning the state as it makes it stronger

*Death by hemlock, or exile

Crito as the embodiment of a corrupt state

Jail Scene

-Bribes the guard: corruption on of the state

-self-interest/individualism

-popular opinion/reputation/public-opinion

*Wise: People

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Philosopher

-those who know about justice + injustice

-Reason be our justice

*Philosopher*

Critique of relativism (represented by Sophists) vs. argument for living by universal ideas/ideals (represented by Socrates)

Sophists (Relativist) Vs. Socrates (Absolutists)

Relativist: nothing is Absolutists: Standard: Unchanging

certain not permanent/ Everlasting Truth

change Universal Standards

depends on history,

customs, culture