socrates Flashcards
What does Socrates’ trial and execution show about democracy and individual rights?
A majority have the capacity to act just like a tyrant.
How and when did Socrates die?
He was executed/poisoned
399 BCE
What are the three primary aspects of Socrates’ Philosophy?
1.The Socratic Method
2. Socratic Wisdom
3. Examination of a Good Human Life
Define Ethics
The study of how live well as a human being.
What was Socrates’ question regarding Ethics?
How does one live the “best” possible life? Specifically, a “good” life, not a moral one.
What is Subjectivism?
The argument that in order to have a good life one must satisfy their desires.
What is Eudaimonism?
The argument that in order to have a good life one must be mature and virtuous.
What does Eudaimonia mean?
This word means: genuine/true happiness.
What are the general arguments for Subjectivism?
- Everyone is different, therefore, has different needs. Happiness is not a size fits all.
- We haven’t come up with an objective answer for human happiness yet after decades of pondering. We would’ve gotten it by now. (Interminable Disagreement)
What is The Socratic Method? What is it’s purpose?
- The Socratic Method is in which one asks another a series of questions and answers that leads to a contradiction.
- The Socratic Method does not create any new/positive knowledge and instead tries to highlight one’s ignorance.
What is Socratic Wisdom?
Realizing one is no wise and in fact is ignorant.
Why is it so easy for Socrates to lead people into contradiction?
- They are not wise
- They believe they are wise