Question 1

According to Socrates' analogy, Athens is like a _______ and he is like a _______.

Accepted Answer

Socrates likened Athens to a large and noble horse and himself to a gadfly. He believed his role was to stir, provoke, and challenge Athens, much like a gadfly stimulates a horse into action.

Question 2

Why doesn't Socrates try to gain sympathy from his jury?

Accepted Answer

Socrates insists on being judged solely on the merits of his arguments and the principles of justice, rather than appealing to the emotions of the jury for sympathy.

Question 3

After being found guilty, what alternative punishment does Socrates ultimately suggest?

Accepted Answer

Socrates suggests a fine of 30 Minas as an alternative punishment after being found guilty, rather than the death penalty or other harsher punishments proposed by his accusers.

Question 4

After being condemned to death, what is Socrates' prophecy?

Accepted Answer

Socrates prophesied that his death would not end philosophical scrutiny and criticism of society, but rather inspire more individuals to question and critique, much like he did.

Question 5

According to Socrates, it is harder to avoid _______ than it is to avoid death.

Accepted Answer

Socrates believed that wickedness was a greater harm to the individual than death itself. He argued that it is more difficult to avoid doing wrong (or being wicked) than it is to avoid dying, emphasizing the importance of virtue and the health of the soul over physical life.

Question 6

Socrates is found guilty and exiled from Athens.

Accepted Answer

Socrates was found guilty but sentenced to death by drinking poison (hemlock), not exiled.

Question 7

For Socrates, while justice is important, it is more important to protect your own life.

Accepted Answer

Socrates believed that living a just and virtuous life was more important than merely preserving one's life. He argued that it is better to suffer injustice than to commit it, emphasizing the importance of morality over physical survival.

Question 8

Plato and other students of Socrates offer to pay a fine of 30 minas for him.

Accepted Answer

Socrates' students, including Plato, offered to pay a fine of 30 minas during his trial as an alternative to the death penalty.

Question 9

Socrates argues that death is the most frightening thing possible, but he is ready to face it.

Accepted Answer

Socrates argues that death should not be feared and demonstrates his willingness to face it as a philosopher, seeking truth and virtue over life itself.

Question 10

Socrates finds that no one he interviews is wiser than he is, because everyone he interviews thinks they know something, even if they don't know it.

Accepted Answer

Socrates, through his method of questioning (elenchus), discovers that those he interviews claim to know things they actually do not understand fully, leading him to conclude that his own wisdom lies in recognizing his ignorance.

Quiz 1: Philosophy

According to Socrates' analogy, Athens is like a _ and he is like a _.