1. Philosophy AND The Great Western Philosopher

2. PHILOSOPHY AND SOCRATES  “Philosophy ”, which means “the love of wisdom ”.

3.  It seeks to trace everything back to its “ultimate grounds ” (typical characteristic of a philosopher). –Ex: What is the origin of the universe?  Philosophy seeks to know why there is a universe at all.

4.  Socrates—the “sophists ” ---the maturity of ancient Greek philosophy. –Born in Athens (469 - 399 B.C.) –Ugly, yet mind was creative, clear, critical, and eager The Great Western Philosopher

5.  Socrates did not record any of his work.  Plato took on the role of student and passed on his work.  Teaching method –Socrates did not use “spoon-feeding” method, but “dialogue -- questions and answers”. –what, where, when, why, how, etc. The Great Western Philosopher

6.  Socrates liked using examples of daily affairs to enlighten his students.  Socrates’ divine mission “was to expose the ignorance of those who thought themselves wise ”- -Plato Thinking question: Why do you think this was Socrates’ mission? The Great Western Philosopher

7. Downfall of Athens  Athens is recovering from the defeat of the Peloponnesian War.  Socrates admired Sparta, especially after this defeat.  Thinking Question: Why is this troubling for the council of Athens? Or  Thinking Question: Why is this troubling for the council of Athens? Or Could this cause problems for Socrates? Why?

8. Socrates’ Trial  Accused of corrupting the minds of young Athenians.  Athenians believed that Socrates was causing the youth to be disobedient by having them ask questions.

9.  According to Xenophon’s story about the trial: –Socrates gave the jury reasons to sentence him to death. –He was executed by drinking poison.

10. Socrates’ Contributions  1. Socrates questioned the moral and political aspects of Athens.  2. Used inductive reasoning, which is to make conclusions.--- Scientific Method.

11. Did he show the meaning of commitment? –Some say he could have escaped the death sentence, but went through it because it went against his way of thinking.

12. Did Athens use Socrates as a scapegoat?  What does scapegoat mean?  Why would Athens do so? You need to choose whether Socrates is guilty or not.