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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Socrates' opinion, what does the common man's simple mind cause him to mistake?

2. Which subject should be taught last in Socrates' curriculum?

3. The Athenian jury finds Socrates_________.

4. When he first address the jury, Socrates_________.

5. Socrates believes that the Sophists________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the entire Apology an example of Socratic wisdom in practice?

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

3. Why does Socrates think the Sophists are evil?

4. Why does Socrates think it acceptable for the state to make philosophers rule if they are unwilling?

5. If one cannot live like a philosopher, what does Socrates think he should do?

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

7. How can tyranny arise in a democratic state?

8. Why does Socrates think that the forms of government are like forms in the human soul?

9. Why are poets dangerous, according to Socrates?

10. What is the point of Socrates' discussion of evil and injustice after death?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Plato's and Socrates's Republic would be a good place to live. Agree or disagree? Use examples from the text to support your opinion.

Essay Topic 2

Many of the dialogues in The Republic take place between Socrates and Glaucon. Whom do you think Plato supports more? Give evidence for your reasoning.

Essay Topic 3

According to Socrates in Book IV of The Republic, justice is a proper organization of the faculties of the soul such that each part is fulfilling its own proper role and not usurping the functions of others. Do you agree or disagree with this definition? Do you think Socrates equivocates this definition in other dialogues? Give examples either modern or ancient where you can test Socrates view of justice.

(see the answer keys)

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