Plato’s Philosophy
Who was Plato’s teacher?
Socrates.
The Five Dialogues mainly focus on the trial and death of which philosopher?
Socrates.
Who was Aristotle’s teacher?
Plato.
What did Epicurus believe was the ultimate goal of human life?
Happiness or ataraxia (peace of mind).
Epictetus was a major figure in which philosophical school?
Stoicism.
In which dialogue does Plato describe his ideal society?
The Republic.
In Euthyphro, Socrates questions the true nature of what concept?
Piety (or holiness).
What did Aristotle call the highest human good or ultimate goal of life?
Eudaimonia (happiness or flourishing).
According to Epicurus, pleasure is the absence of what two things?
Pain and fear.
According to Epictetus, what should we focus on to live peacefully?
What is within our control.
In the Allegory of the Cave, what does the sun represent?
The Form of the Good or ultimate truth.
In Apology, what famous statement does Socrates make about life?
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Aristotle believed moral virtue is developed through what?
Habit and practice.
What did Epicurus teach about death?
That we should not fear it, because when we are alive death is not present, and when death comes, we no longer exist.
What does Epictetus say is the source of true freedom?
Mastering oneself — controlling one’s desires and reactions.
What are the two realms Plato believed reality was divided into?
The physical world and the world of Forms.
In Crito, why does Socrates refuse to escape from prison?
Because he believes it would be unjust to break the laws of Athens.
What principle did Aristotle believe helps people find virtue between extremes?
The Golden Mean.
Why did Epicurus think friendship was essential to happiness?
Because it brings emotional security, comfort, and peace of mind.
What key Stoic distinction divides things that are “up to us” and things that are not?
The dichotomy of control.
What is the name of Plato’s theory that all material things are imperfect copies of ideal forms?
The Theory of Forms.
In Phaedo, what topic does Socrates discuss before his death?
The immortality of the soul.
In Politics, what does Aristotle mean when he says humans are “political animals”?
Humans naturally live in communities and achieve their purpose through social and political life.
How did Epicurus believe people should live in order to be happy?
By living simply and moderately, avoiding excess desires.
What is the Stoic term for a state of inner calm and emotional stability?
Apatheia (tranquility or freedom from passion).