Plato crito Flashcards
What is the main setting of Plato’s ‘Crito’?
The main setting is Socrates’ prison cell in Athens.
Who is the primary character trying to persuade Socrates to escape?
Crito.
What is Crito’s main argument for why Socrates should escape?
Crito argues that Socrates’ death would be an injustice to his friends and family.
True or False: Socrates believes that escaping from prison would be justified.
False.
What does Socrates emphasize as more important than life itself?
The pursuit of justice and virtue.
Fill in the blank: Crito appeals to Socrates’ sense of _____ by arguing that his friends would be shamed if he did not escape.
honor.
What philosophical principle does Socrates use to argue against escaping?
The principle of social contract and obedience to the laws.
How does Socrates view the concept of natural justice in relation to his situation?
Socrates believes that natural justice requires him to accept his punishment.
What does Crito suggest would happen to Socrates’ children if he does not escape?
They would be left without a father.
What is Socrates’ response to the idea of escaping for the sake of his children?
He argues that a good life is more important than merely living.
What type of appeal does Crito use to convince Socrates to escape?
Emotional appeal.
How does Socrates counter Crito’s emotional appeal?
He argues that one should not act based on emotions but rather on reason and justice.
What does Socrates believe would be the consequence of escaping?
He believes it would undermine the laws and the city.
True or False: Socrates thinks that escaping would be a violation of his own principles.
True.
What does Socrates argue about the opinion of the majority?
He argues that the opinion of the majority is not what matters; rather, it is the opinion of the wise.
What is the key contrast between Crito’s perspective and Socrates’ perspective?
Crito values life and societal opinion, while Socrates values justice and moral integrity.
What does Socrates say about the laws of Athens?
He personifies the laws and argues that they deserve respect and obedience.
Fill in the blank: Socrates believes that violating the laws would lead to _____ in society.
chaos.
What does Socrates suggest about the consequences of unjust actions?
He suggests that unjust actions harm the soul.
What is Socrates’ ultimate decision at the end of the dialogue?
He decides not to escape and to accept his death.
What does Crito offer to do to help Socrates escape?
He offers to finance the escape and provide a means of escape.
True or False: Socrates considers Crito’s offer to escape as a valid option throughout the dialogue.
False.
What does Socrates argue is the true measure of a good life?
Living in accordance with virtue and justice.
What is the philosophical significance of ‘Crito’ in relation to Socratic thought?
It illustrates the importance of ethics and moral integrity over mere survival.
How does Crito’s perspective reflect societal pressures?
Crito’s perspective reflects the belief that one must conform to societal expectations to avoid shame.
What does Socrates believe about the relationship between the individual and the state?
He believes that individuals have a duty to uphold the laws of the state they have agreed to live under.
