PHIL 212-001 - Philosophical Abstracts
Philosophical Abstract 1 - Due Thursday, November 12th, by 12:00 p.m. (noon).
Issue: To escape from prison or to remain?
Reading: Plato, Crito
Instructions: Answer the following questions:
1. What is Crito’s position on the issue and what is his strongest argument in support of that position?
2. What is Socrates’ position on the issue and what is his strongest argument in support of that position?
3. Do you agree or disagree with Socrates’ position on the issue, and why?
4. What would you do if legally imprisoned in Pennsylvania and, like Socrates, given the opportunity to escape? Why?
Philosophical Abstract 2 - Due Tuesday, December 1st, by 12:00 p.m. (noon).
Issue: Is Socrates innocent or guilty of the two charges brought against him?
Reading 1: Plato, Apology
Reading 2: Xenophon, Socrates’ Defense
Instructions: Answer the following questions:
1. Does Socrates have a defense against those he calls the “old accusers”?
2. While cross-examining Meletus, what is Socrates’ strongest argument against the charge of corrupting the youth of Athens?
3. While cross-examining Meletus, what is Socrates’ strongest argument against the charge of impiety?
4. Do you find Socrates innocent or guilty? Why?
