Euthyphro The Apology of Socrates Crito

Author: Plato Yanqun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-08-01
Features: The years of Socrates are drawing to a close, and some have seen the ferry of death pass by Sounian. His elderly friend Crito, who is of the same age, arrives before dawn to bring this news, while he himself receives an inspiration in a dream that he must die on the third day. Time is precious; Crito comes early to persuade him to escape from prison, but Socrates willingly sacrifices his own life and refuses Crito's plea to escape.
At the age of thirty-five, the loyal disciple of Socrates, Plato, recorded the circumstances of his teacher's trial, defense, and refusal to flee, as well as his philosophical thoughts. Around 392 BCE, Plato wrote works such as The Apology of Socrates, Crito, and Euthyphro, which are generally considered his early writings. Today, reading this book that includes these three works inevitably reminds us of Socrates' famous saying—only reason is truly valuable.
Dear Crito, your enthusiasm is indeed valuable, but if it is based on just principles, otherwise, the more fervent your enthusiasm, the harder it is to comply. We must consider whether this is something we should do or not; I am not only now but always, merely obedient to reason, and nothing else can bind me. After careful consideration, I believe that only reason is truly valuable. I cannot abandon my past words due to my current situation; they remain unchanged for me, and I still respect them. In this present predicament, if I cannot overcome my past principles, recognize this: I will not yield to you, even if the intimidation of the masses, like that of children, threatens us with even greater terror than imprisonment, execution, confiscation, and the like.
How should we reason about this issue rationally? Should we first examine your words about opinions: that some opinions must be attended to, while others need not—is this statement correct? Or is it that this saying was well-made before my impending execution, but now it has clearly become empty talk, a frivolous waste of words? Crito, I earnestly ask that we examine together: whether our past words appear different in my current situation or remain the same? Should we withdraw or accept the invitation to sit, and do as we are told? I believe that those whose words are recognized as meaningful often say that some opinions must be valued, while others need not, as I just pointed out.
In the name of the gods, Crito, do you not agree that this saying is well-made? From human nature, you have no fear of death tomorrow, and your present misfortune should not confuse your mind. Not all opinions must be respected; some must be, while others need not. Not all opinions have value; some do, and some do not.——Please examine whether this reasoning seems to you fully justified, whether it is well-made? What do you think?