Ethical Philosophy in Plato’s Apology

Running head: ETHICAL PHILOSOPHY IN PLATO’S APOLOGY
ETHICAL PHILOSOPHY IN PLATO’S APOLOGY
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ETHICAL PHILOSOPHY IN PLATO’S APOLOGY1
Plato’s Apology is a speech that Socrates makes at his hearing, where he was charged
with the allegations of not acknowledging the gods, which the state did and corrupting the
nation’s youth. This paper is focused at understanding the heart of the speech that is the ethical
philosophy that makes it a masterpiece in itself.
Though it is labelled as “Plato’s Apology”, it is by no means an apology. The name
stemmed from the Greek word “apologia” that means defense. Therefore, the speech is made by
Socrates in order to defend himself from the allegations on his conduct and not to apologize for
it. In the speech, Socrates states that his behaviour is in accordance to the prophecy made by the
oracle at Delphi that asserted that he was the most learned men of all (Classics.mit.edu). What
makes Socrates’ philosophy interesting and worth noting, is his acceptance that he is ignorant
and that in turn makes him wise than other men. The ethical principles and the philosophy of
Socrates makes the speech a stroke of genius (Jonas). In the speech, Socrates ponders upon his
willingness to still pursue his string of philosophical thoughts and inquiry when that is the sole
reason of people’s displeasure against him and has put his life in danger. His answer justifies his
great philosophy where he says that when a person is performing any action, then the only
relevant question that one should be concerned about is that his actions are right or not. He says
that justice should be given more importance than life and death, as constantly thinking about life
is selfish and unimportant (Taylor). Recognizing the fact that one’s life is uncertain and no one
has any idea about what will happen after death, is vital for survival and happiness in life.
Therefore, having a fear of death is false wisdom and a way of declaring to comprehend the
incomprehensible.
In another instance of his exceptional moral and ethical views on philosophy, Socrates
gives priority to find truth and perfect his soul in that process. According to him, it would be