Work of Socrates:
Socrates left no composed works, so the greater part of our insight into his way of thinking comes from the compositions of his understudies, Plato and Xenophon, and the plays of his contemporary, Aristophanes.
However, despite not leaving any written work, Socrates is known for his Socratic Method of questioning, which is considered his key work.
The Socratic technique is a type of inquiry and conversation between people, based on posing and responding to questions to stimulate critical thinking and to expose contradictions in an individual’s belief. It is a method of teaching that involves asking questions, rather than making statements, to encourage decisive reasoning and assist people in arriving at their own understanding of a subject.
While Socrates did not write any books, his ideas and methods have been recorded by his followers, particularly in the works of Plato.
In Plato’s Dialogues, the Socratic Method is exemplified through the character of Socrates, who engages in a series of conversations with various interlocutors, seeking to uncover the truth of a particular concept or idea. Through a process of questioning, Socrates seeks to expose contradictions and inconsistencies in his interlocutor’s beliefs, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.
The Socratic Method is characterized by a relentless focus on questioning and a commitment to critical thinking. Socrates believed that knowledge could only be attained through questioning and inquiry, and that the process of questioning could lead individuals to a deeper understanding of complex issues.
In philosophy, the Socratic Method has been used to explore a range of topics, including ethics, epistemology, and political philosophy. It encourages individuals to examine their beliefs and assumptions, consider alternative viewpoints, and arrive at a deeper understanding of complex concepts.
Moreover, the Socratic Method promotes active listening, thoughtful responses, and a willingness to challenge and be challenged. It encourages individuals to engage in constructive dialogue, rather than simply asserting their beliefs.
Overall, the Socratic Method is a powerful tool for critical thinking and inquiry. It emphasizes the importance of questioning and encourages individuals to engage in a process of active inquiry to arrive at a deeper understanding of complex concepts. The method continues to be widely used in philosophical inquiry and has influenced a range of fields, including law, education, and psychology. (Plato, Dialogues of Plato, 1871)
Criticism of Socrates:
Socrates was a famous Greek philosopher who lived in Athens (470/469 – 399 BCE). Despite his great influence on Western philosophy, he was not immune to criticism. Some main criticisms against Socrates include:
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Lack of Writing: Socrates left no composed works. All knowledge of him and his philosophy comes from his students and later philosophers. This leads some to question the accuracy of these accounts and argue that his reputation relies more on Plato and Xenophon’s writings than his actual achievements.
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Arrogance and Self-Importance: Socrates’ confidence and self-assurance were seen by some as arrogance. His questioning style was considered by critics as a sign of his belief in his own superiority.
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Corruption of Youth: Socrates was accused of corrupting Athens’ youth by encouraging them to question traditional values and beliefs. This was seen as a threat to the city’s stability and contributed to his trial and execution.
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Unbelief in the Gods: Socrates was also accused of not believing in Athens’ gods and introducing subversive religious beliefs. This was viewed as a challenge to the religious and political order and contributed to his execution.
Plato: Republic (428/427 BC – 348/347 BC)
Books:
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The Republic (380 BC)
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Symposium (385 BC)
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Apology (380 BC)
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Meno (380 BC)
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Phaedo (360 BC)
About “The Republic”:
The Republic is one of the most renowned works of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. It is a comprehensive dialogue that delves into various aspects of political philosophy, ethics, and the nature of justice.
Plato presents his vision of an ideal state, outlining principles and structures necessary for a just and harmonious society.
In The Republic, Plato uses Socrates as the main character. The dialogue begins with Socrates discussing the nature of justice and defining a just society. Plato develops his concept of the ideal state, which he argues is ruled by philosopher-kings.
Plato’s ideal state has a hierarchical structure:
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Rulers (Philosopher-Kings): Possess wisdom and knowledge to govern justly.
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Auxiliaries (Guardians): Responsible for defense.
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Producers: Engage in agriculture, industry, and commerce.
Plato introduces the Theory of Forms, suggesting that the physical world reflects a higher realm of perfect, abstract concepts. The Allegory of the Cave portrays the philosopher’s journey from ignorance to true knowledge.
Plato also discusses education, censorship, women’s roles in society, and the nature of the soul. Through these discussions, he explores the necessary conditions for a just society and provides insights into virtue, wisdom, and the good life. (Plato, 375 BCE)
Criticism of Plato:
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Theory of Forms: Highly abstract and difficult to prove. Critics argue that reality is too dynamic for perfect, unchanging Forms.
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Dualism: Plato’s split between the physical world and the world of Forms is criticized for oversimplifying their relationship.
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Ideal Society: Critics view his vision as unrealistic and unjust due to its rigid class system.
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Allegory of the Cave: Considered too reductionist and unable to capture the complexity of human experience.
Alexander’s Political Philosophy
Books:
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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
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Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday
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Alexander, Who’s Trying His Best to Be the Best Boy Ever
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Alexander, Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move
Philosophy:
Although Alexander the Great is best known for military conquests, he had a significant impact on political philosophy.
According to Hugh Bowden (Alexander the Great: A Very Short Introduction), Alexander believed in the divine nature of kingship. He viewed himself as a “god-king” appointed by the gods to rule.
This belief shaped his philosophy:
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Duty of the Ruler: Ensure happiness and prosperity of subjects.
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Use of Force: Acceptable to maintain order and obedience.
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Personal Example: The ruler should lead by example, inspiring loyalty and moral behavior.
Criticism:
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Overemphasis on Stability: Alexander’s philosophy focuses too much on abstract principles and ignores the complexity of real politics.
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Lack of Inclusivity: Fails to sufficiently consider diverse perspectives and experiences.
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Absence of Practical Policies: Critics argue his ideas don’t offer concrete governance strategies.
(Bowden, 2014)
