Republic Assignment for 3/20

Section One:

Short answers, questions 1 and 2 (at least 2-5 sentences or bullet points, maybe more, per question)

1. Notice that our reading on Thrasymachus is divided into two parts. The first part is entitled – “First Statement and Criticisms”. In this first part, what are Socrates’ main argument(s) against the idea that justice is whatever the strong (i.e. the government) says it is?

Well, he says that it would be a stupid way of running a society. Also, that most governmental figure' will make laws and run an area with rules and laws in their best interest. They want to please themselves and the people and in doing so, the people are happy and obey the political leader.

2. In the second part – “Second Statement and Final Refutation” – what are Thrasymahcus’ two main points and what are Socrates’ two main points in response?

I could only find one main point from Thrasymachus which was 'Justice is the interest of the stronger party and that injustice is the interest and profit of oneself.' and I found two main points from Socrates which were 'No one really wants authority and with it the job of righting other people's wrongs.' and 'All wise men would prefer the benefit of this service at the hands of others.'

Paragraph response, or more, question 3:

Note that we might revisit some of these questions in a Socratic Seminar or as an essay prompt. Consider your response here as a rough draft of initial ideas that could be developed in more detail.

3. You can choose from one of the following prompts to write one paragraph or longer:

In your opinion, is it ever right to harm somebody? Why or why not? What would Socrates and/or Thrasymachus say in response to your answer?

I don't think it is ever right to harm someone unless it is necessary. If you're country is at war with another, you aren't just going to stand there and wait for everyone to die you're going to need to fight in the war to escape defeat. However, you could talk your way out of it I suppose, like offer them natural resources that they need in exchange for peace, e.g. oil, gold, crops, etc. My view of justice is to harm somebody as a last resort. I think Socrates would agree with what I'm saying, how not to harm anyone unless they deserve it or it will save lives and other desperate reasons for doing so.