75: Socrates’ Apology

Nov 14, 2023

Delve into Socrates' complex legacy as a martyr and philosopher, and how Nietzsche viewed him. Explore the Athenian prejudice against Socrates, misunderstood as sophistry. Analyze his brilliant defense filled with wisdom and irony, revealing the flawed accusations he faced. Discover the deeper significance of his commitment to virtue amidst societal rejection. Uncover the nuances of bravery and moral insight that define Socrates' Apology and provoke thought on truth and persuasion.

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Socrates as a Symptom of Decline

Socrates' philosophical skepticism arose during Athenian societal decline.
He questioned sacred beliefs and institutions, signifying a loss of societal confidence.

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ANECDOTE

Socrates and Anitas

In Plato's Mino, Socrates debated Anitas about democracy fostering virtue.
Anitas, later a key accuser, became enraged by Socrates' arguments, foreshadowing the trial.

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INSIGHT

Socrates vs. Sophists

Socrates was widely disliked, often mistaken for a sophist.
Unlike sophists who taught rhetoric for pay, Socrates offered free, often unwelcome, virtue lessons.

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The Socratic Method and Athenian Prejudice

20:26 • 10min

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Socrates' Defense: Wisdom and Irony in the Face of Accusation

30:35 • 21min

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Socrates' Trial and Philosophical Reflections

51:54 • 22min

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The gay science

Dallas, Eneas Sweetland, 1828-1879.

The Gay Science is a book by Friedrich Nietzsche, first published in 1882 and expanded in 1887. It is a collection of poems and 383 aphorisms that interrogate the history of knowledge and celebrate philosophy as a means to individual freedom and cultural renewal. Nietzsche declares the death of God and critiques European culture, morality, and the role of religion. The book is known for its aphoristic style and its exploration of themes such as the artifice of knowledge, the importance of 'amor fati' (love of fate), and the need for a 'gay science' that is joyful and life-affirming.

Beyond Good and Evil

Prelude to a Philosophy of the Future

Friedrich Nietzsche

In 'Beyond Good and Evil', Nietzsche challenges the traditional morality and philosophical thought of his time. He argues that the Christian world is steeped in a 'slave morality' that demonizes strength and domination, and instead proposes a philosophy that celebrates the present and the individual's 'will to power'. The book is known for its aphoristic style and its critique of past philosophers for their dogmatic premises. Nietzsche advocates for a new kind of philosopher who values imagination, self-assertion, and the creation of values, and he introduces the concept of 'perspective of life' which denies a universal morality for all human beings.

The Apology

The Defense of Socrates

Plato

In 'The Apology,' Plato presents Socrates' defense against the charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. Socrates argues that he is innocent and that his actions are divinely inspired, as indicated by the Oracle at Delphi. He defends his method of questioning and exposing the ignorance of others, which he believes is a service to the state. Despite his defense, Socrates is found guilty and sentenced to death. The dialogue is a powerful critique of the Athenian justice system and a testament to Socrates' commitment to his philosophical principles.

The Genealogy of Morals

Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche's "On the Genealogy of Morality" is a critical examination of morality's historical development. Nietzsche challenges traditional views of good and evil, arguing that they are not objective truths but rather power dynamics. He traces the origins of morality to resentment and the will to power, suggesting that morality is a tool used by the weak to control the strong. The work is divided into three essays, each exploring different aspects of morality's evolution. Nietzsche's analysis is complex and provocative, challenging readers to reconsider their own moral values and beliefs. His work continues to spark debate and inspire new interpretations.

Twilight of the idols

Friedrich Nietzsche

Twilight of the Idols, or How to Philosophize with a Hammer, is a collection of aphorisms and essays by Friedrich Nietzsche. It represents a sharp critique of traditional philosophical and religious systems, particularly targeting what he sees as 'idols' or false beliefs. Nietzsche's style is characterized by its provocative and often paradoxical statements, challenging readers to question established norms and values. The work explores themes of morality, truth, and the nature of power, influencing subsequent philosophical and cultural movements. It is considered one of Nietzsche's most accessible and influential works.

Crito

Spence, Joseph

In 'Crito,' Plato presents a dialogue between Socrates and his friend Crito, who tries to persuade Socrates to escape from prison. The dialogue delves into themes of justice, duty, and the moral obligations of citizens towards their state. Socrates argues that he must obey the laws of Athens, even if they are unjust, because he has benefited from them throughout his life.

Phaedo

Benjamin Jowett

Plató

In this dialogue, Plato presents his metaphysical, psychological, and epistemological views through the conversations of Socrates and his friends on the day of his execution. The dialogue includes four arguments for the immortality of the soul, discussions on the theory of Forms, and Socrates' account of his final hours. It is a key work in Plato's middle period, combining profound philosophy with a vivid narrative of Socrates' last day.

When Mino Took the Bus

Simona Ciraolo

This picture book follows Mino, a chipmunk who leaves his mother at seven weeks old and boards a bus to start his new life. During the bus ride, Mino befriends various passengers and shares his seeds with them. The journey highlights the importance of the relationships and small moments shared along the way. The story is accompanied by adorable illustrations and conveys a beautiful lesson for both children and graduating seniors.

Socrates was a famous opponent of the Sophists, the teachers of rhetoric instead of truth - and yet, in his legal defense, he employs the techniques of rhetoric and displays a mastery of oratory. In a society that distrusted irony and regarded it as a form of dishonesty, Socrates uses the art of persuasion in a manner that is anti-persuasive: a brilliant irony that few of his judges would have understood, and resented if they had. While Nietzsche’s later period is characterized by savage criticism of Socrates, Nietzsche describes Socrates as a heroic conqueror of death, in his lectures at Basel. Today we’re going to dissect the rhetoric, the irony, and the deeper significance of Socrates’ famous defense at his trial: the act of commitment to virtue in spite of the consequences, in defiance of the conventions of society and the sentiments of the majority. Episode art: Death of Socrates by Jacques-Louis David

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