Crito

Definition

Crito is a dialogue by Plato that depicts a conversation between Socrates and his wealthy friend Crito regarding justice, morality, and the obligation to uphold one's principles, even in the face of death. This text is crucial as it explores themes such as civil disobedience, the nature of justice, and Socrates' unwavering commitment to his philosophical beliefs, particularly during the period surrounding his trial and impending execution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the Crito, Socrates argues against escaping from prison, emphasizing the importance of respecting the laws of Athens.
2. Crito represents the voice of practicality, urging Socrates to save himself for the sake of his family and friends, while Socrates remains focused on moral principles.
3. The dialogue raises questions about whether one should ever act against the law, even if the law seems unjust.
4. Socrates' refusal to escape demonstrates his belief in the social contract, where individuals must abide by the laws they have implicitly accepted by living in a society.
5. Crito illustrates the conflict between personal desires and ethical responsibilities, showcasing Socrates' steadfast commitment to his values in the face of death.

Review Questions

• How does Socrates justify his decision not to escape from prison in Crito, and what philosophical principles does this reflect?
  • Socrates justifies his decision not to escape by arguing that it would violate his commitment to justice and the laws of Athens. He believes that escaping would undermine his life’s philosophy and contradict the principles he has lived by. This reflects a deep philosophical integrity, emphasizing that one must uphold their ethical beliefs even when facing dire consequences.
• Discuss the role of Crito in the dialogue and how his perspective contrasts with Socrates' views on justice and morality.
  • Crito serves as a practical counterpoint to Socrates' philosophical ideals. While Crito advocates for action based on personal interests and social obligations—urging Socrates to escape for the sake of his loved ones—Socrates insists on adhering to moral principles over personal survival. This contrast highlights the tension between ethical convictions and societal expectations.
• Evaluate the implications of Socrates' arguments in Crito regarding civil disobedience in contemporary society.
  • Socrates' arguments in Crito can be applied to discussions on civil disobedience today by emphasizing the importance of ethical consistency in challenging unjust laws. His stance raises questions about when it is justifiable to disobey laws that conflict with moral beliefs. In modern contexts, Socratic principles encourage individuals to weigh their obligations to society against their ethical duties, prompting meaningful discourse on justice and individual rights.

Related terms

Socratic Method: A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue that stimulates critical thinking, often involving asking and answering questions to stimulate deep reflection.

Philosophical Integrity: The commitment to act according to one's ethical beliefs and principles, even when faced with difficult choices or consequences.

Civil Disobedience: The active refusal to obey certain laws or demands of a government as a peaceful form of protest against perceived injustices.