Euthyphro and Piety
An Analysis of Euthyphro with an Alternative Definition of Piety
Euthyphro gives three definitions of piety which fail to satisfy Socrates. Socrates' goal in this dialogue is to reveal the shallowness of Euythyphro's argument and obtain a better understanding of truth. In other words, Socrates' objective is the same as always: To point out, as Rudebusch (1999) states, "that one who is aware of one's ignorance is in a better position to learn the truth than one taking oneself to know" (p. 13). This paper will provide Euthyphro's three definitions of piety, Socrates' refutations, my own definition of piety and what I think Socrates' response would be to it.
1st Definition
Piety, Euthyphro explains in his first definition to Socrates, is "doing as I am doing; that is to say, prosecuting any one who is guilty of murder, sacrilege, or of similar crime -- whether he be your father or mother, or whoever he may be -- that makes no difference; and not to prosecute them is impiety" (5e). Euthyphro's definition of piety is stark, simple, and clear -- and so is the fact that he considers himself to be a very pious person. This fact is immediately analyzed by Socrates.
Socrates cross-examines Euthyphro, attempting to extract from him a more precise definition of piety: "When asked, you only replied, Doing as you do, charging your father with murder" (6d). The irony here is that Socrates is already aware that Euthyphro is not interested in absolute truth but rather only in justifying himself,...
Euthyphro, Socrates Euthyphro discuss concept piety/Holiness. This essay test ability recognize engag The principle tenet discussed in the Socratic Dialogue Euthyphro, which centers on a discussion between Euthyphro and the great Greek philosopher, is piety or holiness. This topic emerges in the dialogue because it is of immense importance to the future of both men. They meet on the porch of King Archon, and quickly ascertain that each is there
Euthyphro, Socrates Euthyphro discuss concept piety/Holiness. This essay test ability recognize engag The concept of holiness is central to the Platonic dialogue that takes place between Euthyphro and Socrates in Euthyphro. This topic is of immense interest to both of the aforementioned participants due to the fact that they are both headed for a legal trial. Socrates has been brought up on trial for charges that he is corrupting the
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