Essay 1
PHIL 2200.00: Introduction to Philosophy
02/21/2010
Chad Rowe
Socrates’ Arrogance
Socrates has been widely known as one of the founding fathers of western philosophy and
the originator of the Socratic method of debate (Akbar). Through this method of thinking,
Socrates would often walk up and down the streets questioning many “high figures” or
authorities about their beliefs and opinions on various matters. After revealing
contradictions in what the person originally thought, they would become annoyed and
frustrated with Socrates, accusing him of being arrogant. To determine if Socrates was in
fact arrogant, and if it played a role in his behavior and death, we need to first determine
what it means to be arrogant. Arrogance, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is “An attitude
of superiority manifested in an overbearing manner or in presumptuous claims or
assumptions” (“Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary”). This essay will look at Socrates,
from a philosophical standpoint, to analyze how and where his arrogance played a part in
his behavior which ultimately led to his death.
In “Plato’s Apology,” Socrates is in court defending himself and fighting the accusations
made against him. In reference to his manner of speech, Socrates informs the judges “To
concentrate your attention on whether what I say is just or not, for the excellence of a
judge lies in this. . .” (Plato, and Cooper p. 21). Within his opening statement his arrogance
is already starting show, as he tells the judges where to focus their attention during the
course of his apology to hopefully deter the their minds from his manner of speech, and
