3/20 Republic Assignment

Once again, philosophical goodness ensures. Let me warn you, though, that I'm in an unusually good mood today. Sometimes that means that you'll see my optimistic side, sometimes that means you'll see my more deluded side. Sometimes both. Sometimes neither. So, be warned ;)

1. Notice that our reading on Thrasymachus is divided into two parts. The first part is entitled – “First Statement and Criticisms”. In this first part, what are Socrates’ main argument(s) against the idea that justice is whatever the strong (i.e. the government) says it is?

-If it is right to do what is in the stronger party's interest, and the stronger party sometimes makes rules that are not in their interest, then it must be right to go against the rules not in their interest. However, this contradicts his other idea of right, where one is obedient to the stronger party.

-The rules the stronger party makes are always in the interest of their subjects, not themselves, the same way a doctor's actions are in the interest of their patients

2. In the second part – “Second Statement and Final Refutation” – what are Thrasymahcus’ two main points and what are Socrates’ two main points in response?

-Justice is what is good for someone else, mainly the stronger party
Socrates' response: This contradicts what he said earlier, where a doctor (Stronger party) will always help his patients

-Injustice is just as good as justice
Socrates' response: There is punishment for injustice

In your opinion, is it ever right to harm somebody? Why or why not? What would Socrates and/or Thrasymachus say in response to your answer?

It is only right to hurt someone if it is in self-defense, and even then only as a last resort. This is so because, in my opinion, justice is a way to live by that avoids conflict. Were conflict to arise, one should always try to negotiate things out before resorting to violence.

Socrates' response: Really, now? Wouldn't the just man always be able to find a non-violent way to solve everything?
Thrasymachus' response: Pffft. It all depends on your opponent. Were he stronger than you, it would be in both of your interests to simply submit to him. Otherwise, by all means, kill him.

END OF LINE. Now, as always, here's the latest going ons with Clan Darkterror Productions: First and foremost, WE FINALLY GOT THE DEMO UP. REVEL IN IT'S GLORY. Once you are done enjoying that, be a pal and Help us finish the whole game, so that you may enjoy it too!(Better do it fast, though, because the main characters are being taken up rather quick! If you wait too long, you might end up as one of the additional characters!) And while your at it, see what we're up to At the new Eternity's End devlog! Also, (Although I still gotta talk to tivicus about it,)there's a possibility of Eternity's End merchandise that will be released alongside the game, such as soundtracks and the like. So be on the lookout for those!