Introduction To Philosophy

Slide for Second Class

I. Introductions Again: Name, Other MSC Classes Taken, Book(s) You are currently reading (other than Plato). 

II. Your Questions and Comments From First Class? 

III. Returning to “What Is Philosophy?” 

Regarding The Interpretations Presented In This Course

Some of the Goals of Philosophizing. 

Pause for discussion and comments. 

IV. Returning to “Introduction To Plato:”

Plato’s View of “Man.” 

Pause for discussion and comments. 

V. In Class Reading and Discussion of Plato’s Meno 77c-B, pp. 66-67 of text:

What is the thesis, what are the stages of the argument, is it a good argument? 

Why it is important: pedagogy and the importance of education if it can prevent citizens from doing evil!  Think of his Euthyphro here. 

VI. Introduction to Plato’s Euthyphro:

discussion of what Euthyphro is doing, what Socrates is doing (and why he is doing it), and why Socrates cares about what Euthyphro is doing?  Discussion of the Greeks’ views regarding religion and of Plato’s differing view. 

Pause for discussion and comments. 

VII. Going Through The Text Carefully! 

Assignment for Third Class: Re-read Plato’s Euthyphro, read Plato’s Apology.  We will finish our discussion of the Euthyphro and begin discussion of Socrates’ trial and his defense.  Again, we want to ask, and try out various answers as to, what he is doing, why is he doing it, and why does Plato care about what his fellow citizens are doing?