The Injustice of the Athenians
The story Crito written by Plato discusses the conversation between two friends the night before Socrates is to be executed. Moreover, the theme of this debate that Socrates will engage in with his confidant Crito is whether it is acceptable for a just man to break out of jail to avoid his demise. This is an example of a civil disobedience. The question I will answer is what is gratitude? Does Socrates think part of his obligation to remain is based on gratitude? Furthermore, Socrates I will argue felt enormous gratitude towards his pupils and associates as well as the city and democracy of Athens. It was the love of these elements that Socrates held dearest in his heart, for that reason the choice was clear he had to stay in the jail and accept his punishment for anything else would have been unjust in his eyes.
English: The School of Athens (detail). Fresco, St...
Portrait of Socrates. Marble, Roman artwork (1st c...
The "obscene" medieval depiction of Socrates and P...Socrates and Crito discuss how much more important it is to be thought of as a just and honest man in the eyes of those who actually know what it means to act just in ones life. In addition, this is interpreted as a acceptance to break laws if one believes in a higher governing entity; a more contemporary issue would be the sit in's at segregated restaurants in the south during the civil rights movement when Dr. King felt in Gods eyes he had not committed a crime. The two friends elaborate how the opinions of the masses are irrelevant; one should only concern themselves with the opinions of the intellectuals not the sheep of Athens. Socrates goes on to elaborate on "Then, my friend, we must not regard what the many say of us; but what he, the one man who has understanding of just and...