Analysis Of Michael Russo's Introduction To Socratic Ethics

Michael Russo's Introduction to Socratic Ethics profiles Socrates and aspects of his most formative philosophies and teachings. While we only know Socrates through other’s impressions of him, Plato’s dialogues feature what appears to be the most genuine representation of Socrates’ thoughts and philosophy. In this, ignorance, the Socratic method and Socrates’ thoughts on virtue are detailed. Russo argues that Socrates believed that happiness stems from virtue, which in turn stems from elenchos and episteme. For the most part, I agree with Socrates’ claims on ignorance and the yearning for self-examination and introspection, yet I disagree with his stance on virtue as knowledge.

Russo starts by examining Socrates’ views of ignorance. Russo starts

In feigning ignorance, Socrates appealed to an intrinsic part of human nature, ego. By getting his subjects to play along, he lured them into detailing their lack of knowledge. I believe that in doing this, Socrates gets a true estimate of the character of those around him, much like Andie Anderson in the 2003 film, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. In an attempt to understand what drives men away in relationships, Andie feigns ignorance while in a “relationship.” In doing so, she finds out the true character of her pseudo-boyfriend who, like the citizens during Socrates’ time, did not like being a “guinea pig” or “somebody you can test your theories on” (Petrie, 2003). While I believe that people who are not morally good can trick themselves into believing that they are happy, I agree with the notion that one has to be morally good to be truly happy. When focusing on materialistic objects and dwelling in immorality, I believe there is a lack of fulfillment that does not come when striving for integrity. In the Great Gatsby, Jay Gatsby got what he seemingly wanted; a big house, money, social status. What he did not get, however, was happiness. He built his empire on lies and corruption. In fact, “his dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it,” but he never