PHI/105 Week Two Socrates Essay Option 1

For this assignment, you will choose from the following options:

• Option 1: Socrates & the Afterlife
• Option 2: Socrates & Knowledge

Read the instructions in the University of Phoenix Material: Assignment Options: Socrates Essay, and select one option to complete the assignment.

Submit your paper as a Microsoft® Word® document to the Assignment Files tab.

Assignment Options: Socrates Essay

For this assignment, you will write a short paper on one of two topics about Socrates. Remember to introduce your topic with a concise thesis statement, and follow up with supportive arguments. Complete your essay with a logical conclusion paragraph.

For examples of how to compose a clear essay, refer to the Center for Writing Excellence Writing Wizard: https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/grammar/writingwizard.asp

Option 1: Socrates & the Afterlife

Read selections from The Phaedo, available in this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. Focus on paragraphs 107 to 115a (pp. 437–444).

Write a700- to 1,050-word essay on the following:

·         Why does Socrates not fear death?

·         What are his views on death and the afterlife?

·         Do you agree or disagree with Socrates on this topic? 

·         Using the Socratic method and The Good Thinker’s Tool Kit, formulate at least one question you would ask Socrates about his views on the afterlife.

Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

Option 2: Socrates & Knowledge

Read Meno, found on p. 56 of Philosophy: The Power of Ideas.

Write a700- to 1,050-word essay on the following:

·         What are Socrates’s ideas on how we “come to know”?

·         What example does Socrates use to prove his point? 

·         Do you agree with Socrates’s ideas? 

·         Using the Socratic method and The Good Thinker’s Tool Kit, formulate at least one question you would ask Socrates about his views on knowledge.

Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.