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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to Socrates' opinion, what does the common man's simple mind cause him to mistake?
(a) A ceasing of pain for pleasure.
(b) Emotions for arguments.
(c) Examples for definitions.
(d) Reason for illogic.

2. As a consequence of an elevated state of mind, Socrates explains that philosophers often have trouble_________.
(a) Focusing on complicated issues.
(b) Apprehending absolute truths.
(c) With sensible and mundane activities.
(d) Being professional.

3. If led by true philosophers, Socrates argues that the republic would__________________.
(a) Be the most powerful state in the world.
(b) Not negotiate with other nations.
(c) Deal justly with foreigners.
(d) Reflect the same perfect justice, beauty, and goodness of its leaders.

4. Philosophers, according to Socrates' analogy, are which of the following?
(a) The farmers who cut the chickens' heads off.
(b) Men freed from the cave, seeing the shadow puppets for what they are.
(c) The parasite sitting in the beast's stomach, making it hungry.
(d) Wind making the willows flap.

5. After a philosopher's formal education is complete in the Republic, what does Socrates' think is the next step in his training?
(a) Going into the street and spreading his knowledge to the masses.
(b) Living abroad and returning only when summoned.
(c) Holding a military post in order to see if he can resist temptation in the field.
(d) Working towards a professorship.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Book IX, what is the common man's deepest pleasure?

2. Socrates firmly believes that poetry _____________.

3. What is an oligarchy?

4. Socrates concludes Book X with a theory of _______________.

5. From Socrates' point of view, the philosopher is __________ than the tyrant.

Short Essay Questions

1. What objection does Cebes raise about Socrates view on death?

2. What does the cave metaphor mean?

3. How does Socrates defend against Meletus' chargers of impiety?

4. What is the ultimate goal of the philosopher, as explained by Socrates in Book VI? How does he attain this?

5. Why does Socrates think the Sophists are evil?

6. Why are poets dangerous, according to Socrates?

7. What, does Socrates think, is the best form of government?

8. Describe Crito's and Socrates' relationship. Why is this important to the dialogue?

9. How does Socrates argue that it is unlawful to break out of prison?

10. Why does Socrates think that aspiring philosophers should be instructed in dialectic only at the end of their educations?

(see the answer keys)

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