The Trial of Socrates raises a number of important issues worth further reflection. Today, during class, please write a response to one of the following prompts. Be sure to include at least two specific examples from the trial and one personal anecdote that is relevant to the topic. This is due at the end of the class period.
Time is limited, so I don't care about formatting. Just make sure your name is on it and the organization is clear.
1) Socrates was accused of circulating ideas that were dangerous to the very well-being of Athens. When is an idea so dangerous that it must be suppressed? What limits, if any, should there be on freedom of speech? Should freedoms be sacrificed to ensure safety?
2) Socrates was blamed for the misdeeds of two of his students, Alcibiades and Critias. Should a teacher be blamed for the actions of his/her students? In what circumstances? What kinds of teaching is acceptable, what kinds are unacceptable?
3) Many of you believed that the laws Socrates was accused of violating - particularly impiety and hubris - were unjust. If the law is unjust, is upholding that law an act of justice or injustice? What is the proper way of responding to an unjust law?
4) Why were the Athenians so worried about impiety and hubris anyway? Are these things we no longer concern ourselves with today? Or, can you still see people punished for impiety and hubris in the US?
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