Socrates' Search for a Definition

             Socrates' Search for a Definition
             In this paper I will first show why Socrates thinks Euthyphro can explain the essence of piety. I will explain why it is important for Socrates to have a definition of piety. Then the paper will go into why it is not enough to just know an affect or quality of pious actions. I will construct my argument on Socrates' own statements about his lack of knowledge in regard to piety. Through that argument I will conclude on why I believe Socrates' demand for a definition is legitimate.
             The reason Socrates wants Euthyphro to give a definition of piety is because Euthyphro claims to have absolute knowledge of what piety is and what it is to be pious. "I should be of no use, Socrates, and Euthyphro would not be superior to the majority of men, if I did not have accurate knowledge of all things" (5a). In this passage stated by Euthyphro he claims to be an authority figure in the case of what piety is and what it is to be pious. Socrates admits that he has no absolute knowledge of piety, and asks Euthyphro to enlighten him on the subject (5d). Through elenchus Socrates wants to break down Euthyphro's claim of absolute knowledge. Socrates does this to prove to Euthyphro that if you claim to have full knowledge, you must have a complete understanding of the topic at hand. I feel that when a person understands the full essence of something as a whole, that person can make judgments based on his full knowledge of that material, and be justified in doing so. If someone claims to know something but cannot describe it, then they do not have an absolute understanding. The person might feel that they know on an emotional level, but then the decisions made based on those feelings are unjust. The reason is because when there is emotion involved it can alter the reasoning. When the whole essence of something is not understood then the person is not able to step back and look at it from al...

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Socrates' Search for a Definition. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 06:09, March 28, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/9881.html