Crito
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Alex Montanile
Prof. Antonini
May 4, 2006
Crito
Crito, as reported by Plato, is a story by where Crito is attempting to influence Socrates to escape from prison to avoid certain death by execution. Socrates argument relates to the laws of the state and the role of the individual within it. The Crito shows the character of Socrates as a good citizen, who being unfairly punished is willing to give up his life in agreement to the laws of the State.
Crito, a longtime devoted friend and believer of Socrates ethical teachings presents a convincing argument to escape. Although the arguments of Crito have value, they have not convinced Socrates that he should escape from prison. An escape would certainly denounce the laws of the state, which Socrates has always declared to uphold.
Escaping from prison would be a violation of the law of the land and would mean that Socrates is an enemy to people of the society. To ensure that the orderly society remains in order, a citizen has a moral responsibility to accept the penalty of law. Socrates decision could therefore bring a lasting effect to the peoples loyalty to the laws.
Crito argued that in the opinion of many people, both Socrates and his friends will be severely criticized if he does not make an attempt to escape. Socrates argues in defense of this position by calling attention to the danger that is linked with following public opinion. He feels that the opinion of some should be regarded and the opinion of others should be disregarded. By his escaping, it would be of no benefit to him, his friends or family, as it would definitely cause them harm.
Those who would have assisted in his escape would have likely been driven into exile, lose their personal property and even their citizenship. As for him personally, departing to a neighboring city would be very difficult as he would be regarded as an enemy and looked down upon.
Socrates and Crito are both in agreement that the sentence was in fact unjust. Therefore, Critos opinion is that it would not be wrong for Socrates to escape because he has been imprisoned unfairly. However, Socrates does not agree with Critos thoughts, keeping his