Criton

Definition

Criton is a dialogue written by Plato that depicts a conversation between Socrates and his wealthy friend, Crito, taking place in Socrates' prison cell before his execution. The dialogue explores themes of justice, morality, and the obligations of the individual to society, reflecting Socrates' philosophical views on accepting the consequences of one’s actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Criton, Crito visits Socrates in prison and urges him to escape to avoid his impending execution, presenting arguments based on friendship and public opinion.
2. Socrates argues against escaping, emphasizing the importance of living a just life and adhering to the law, even when it results in personal harm.
3. The dialogue illustrates Socrates' commitment to his principles, showing that he values truth and justice over life itself.
4. Socrates introduces the idea that one should never repay injustice with injustice, reinforcing his ethical stance against wrongdoing.
5. Criton provides insight into Socrates' views on the social contract, suggesting that by choosing to live in Athens, he has implicitly agreed to abide by its laws.

Review Questions

• How does Socrates' argument in Criton reflect his views on justice and morality?
  • In Criton, Socrates articulates his belief that justice should not be compromised for personal gain or fear of death. He emphasizes that escaping from prison would undermine his principles and set a poor example for others. By prioritizing moral integrity over survival, Socrates illustrates his conviction that true happiness comes from living a virtuous life aligned with ethical standards.
• What are the key arguments presented by Crito to persuade Socrates to escape from prison, and how does Socrates counter these arguments?
  • Crito presents several arguments to convince Socrates to escape, including concerns about how people will view him as a coward if he chooses death over life. He also highlights the impact on their mutual friends who may suffer from Socrates' death. However, Socrates counters these points by arguing that public opinion is not a reliable measure of what is right. He insists that it is more important to remain just and uphold the law rather than act out of fear or desire for social approval.
• Evaluate the implications of Socrates' decision to accept his sentence in Criton for contemporary discussions about civil disobedience and social responsibility.
  • Socrates' decision to accept his death sentence rather than escape speaks volumes about civil disobedience and social responsibility today. It raises questions about the balance between individual ethics and societal laws. His stance suggests that individuals have a moral duty to uphold justice even when faced with unjust laws or systems. This perspective continues to resonate in modern debates about activism, where the challenge remains between advocating for change and maintaining adherence to societal norms.

Related terms

Socrates: An ancient Greek philosopher credited as one of the founders of Western philosophy, known for his method of questioning and dialogue.

Plato: A student of Socrates and a foundational figure in Western philosophy, known for his writings on ethics, politics, and metaphysics, including dialogues like Criton.

Philosophical Ethics: The branch of philosophy that deals with questions about what is morally right and wrong, guiding human conduct and societal norms.