In Plato’s Apology, Socrates famously observes that “the unexamined life is not worth living” (Plato 38a). Explain and evaluate how Socrates argues for this thesis. Your analysis should begin
by looking at
(i) Socrates’s discussion of the Oracle of Delphi and Socratic ignorance;
(ii) his presentation of philosophy as a heroic quest; and
(iii) his comments on the “care of the self” and his role as “gadfly” in spurring individuals and communities alike to focus on what is most important to a life lived well. Then, present what you take to be the 2 most cogent objections to the view you just laid out. Finally, evaluate the debate in light of the objections raised—does
Socrates succeed in defending the view that philosophy/the examined life is the best type of life
to lead?
