His DEATH Set Off the Age Of Philosophy: Socrates - Phaedo by Plato - Harvard Classics - HC2 Ep6

Socrates' Last Moments and the Debate on the Soul

In this podcast episode, the story of Socrates' death is explored, focusing on his last moments and the philosophical discussions that took place. Socrates chooses to spend his final moments with a group of philosophers rather than his family, highlighting the importance of engaging in philosophical conversations. The concept of suicide is discussed, with Socrates emphasizing its wrongness and the belief that one should not be their own benefactor in death. The primary topic of the discussion revolves around the soul, with Socrates stating that true philosophers should not fear death, as it is what they seek. He examines the nature of death and argues that it is the separation of the soul from the body. Socrates also highlights the hindrance of the body in obtaining pure knowledge and emphasizes the importance of pursuing philosophical pursuits over bodily desires. The conversation delves into metaphysics, discussing the existence of the soul beyond the physical realm. Arguments are presented to support the immortality of the soul, including the concept of cycles and the idea of knowledge as recollection. The episode ends with Socrates calmly accepting his fate and reminding his friend Krito that he is the soul and not the body.