Socrates' Threat to Athenian Democracy

Paper Summary:

This paper explores why Socrates' teachings and character were irreconcilable with the civic order and authority of Athenian rule. The paper focuses on the arguments proposed by Socrates in light of the state of Athenian politics. The paper shows how his 'subversive' convictions and arguments on the state of the Athenian social model were seen as a threat that needed to be exterminated.

From the Paper:

"The first source to draw on when looking at the question, and attempting to gauge the level of potential threat Socrates posed to the state of Athens, is the indictment he was charged with being guilty of in the first place: "This indictment and affidavit is sworn by Meletus, the son of Meletus of Pitthos, against Socrates, the son of Sophroniscus of Alopece. Socrates is guilty of refusing to recognize the gods recognized by the state and of introducing other divinities. He is also guilty of corrupting the youth. The penalty demanded is death." First let us look at the religious implications of such a charge."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brickhouse, T.C & Smith, N. D Socrates on Trial Oxford University Press 1989
• Plato The Republic Trans. Lee, D Penguin Classics 1955
• Mion, M Athenian Democracy: Politicization and Constitutional Restraints: History of Political Thought Vol. VII Issue 2 Summer 1986
• Wallach, J.R Socratic Citizenship: History of Political Thought Vol. IX Issue 3 Winter 1988

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