Due Tuesday, 3/20 Republic Assignment

Q1: 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?

A1: Socrates main points are the fact that the strong is not specific enough (who are the strong), the strong make mistakes, and that their are different governmental societies.

Q2: In the second part – “Second Statement and Final Refutation” – what are Thrasymahcus’ two main points and what are Socrates’ main points in response?

A2: I'm not that sure on what the last few pages are about. I couldn't figure out why Thrasymahcus was referring to nurses, sheep and shepherds.

Q3: 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?

A3: I do not think it is right to harm somebody. In todays world that will never be reality, but it would be nice. I think it is not right to harm something simply because it causes complications like: "Hey, he hurt me... can I hurt him back?" I think Thrasymachus would agree with me. Socrates ooin the other hand would try to argue over the little points that are just annoying to listen to and only Socrates would care about. He would never even make up his own point, just disargee with me. (I havn't read enough of plato to really know what he would do but thats what I am assuming now.)