Question and Answer - Philosophy

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Question Three: Socrates is not conscious of his ignorance; do I see any social and political implications of this today?

For me, this quote by Socrates says that he, and he alone is aware of how little he knows, while being viewed as one with superior wisdom. This holds true for each and everyone of us, scholars and ordinary people alike. Although we know there is more to Socrates’ wisdom then he cares to admit according to Plato’s writings. What has also been said by Plato is that Socrates’ claimed that he never started any arguments, they always came from the person he was talking with, even though he knew he had a slight advantage in having the skill to recall similar discussions about the matter from another’s wisdom and tailor it in a way befitting his style. I understand that Socrates’ has been seen to some as an intellect, whose questioning brings the thoughts of others into perspective and from out of the darkness. But his skill in clarifying and debating, a skill which he truly excelled at; to him, was not a form of real wisdom as far as he was concerned. He believes real wisdom is accurate knowledge about ethical subjects and how to live ones life. So, when Socrates claims ignorance, I believe he means being ignorant about the pillars of morality and his goal was to try and correct this deficiency through his teachings.

Unfortunately, I do see social and political implications today. Especially since the election of President Barack Obama the political and social oppression being imposed on this country can be clearly seen from every viewpoint. This oppression has always been woven into the fabric of our countries history and the history of mankind, but today in America it has rose to a new and frightenin...

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...s of my ignorance”, the world may be a much better place today.

Question Seven: What did the last word in Plato’s account of the apology have to do with Socrates defense?

Theo (God) was the last word in the Apology and I have came to the conclusion that Socrates defense was based on his understanding and views on religion and worship of those times. The reality was, he didn’t have a defense. He knew he wasn‘t an Atheis, regardless of what the prosecution said, he just had a more intellectual theory about God, Gods and deities that Greek leadership couldn’t comprehend. So I believe he ended with the word Theo, or God because he would end up dying hoping that he will see the truth in the afterlife.

Works Cited

http://www.teenink.com/opinion/current_events_politics/article/213135/Peoples-Ignorance-Contributes-to-their-Political-and-Social-Oppression

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