The Good Life In Plato's The Apology

In Plato’s “The Apology,” Socrates is defending himself before the Athenian government on charges of heresy and corrupting the youth. Socrates’ introspective reflection on pertinent issues and his own life are ruled wrong by Athenian State. As a result, he faces charges from this decision to pursue a life full of philosophical exploration, and this is what leads him to be brought before the court. However, once the trial begins, instead of repenting and likely being able to walk away with a nonfatal punishment, he claims, the good life is an examined life, and ultimately, an unexamined life is not worth living to defend himself. Socrates believes in this claim with such sustenance; it is what ultimately causes him to lose his life, by not willing

One of Socrates’ friends, Chaerephon, asked if there was anyone wiser than Socrates, to which the oracle replied, “no one” (21a, 85). Socrates, knowing he was not very wise, sought to investigate the claim (21b, 85). Already, the reader can begin to understand how an examined life, is a good life. Socrates is unwilling to accept something as truth, just because it is said by a person in a position of power and respect. He chooses to investigate the claim, to find an understanding of how it can be that someone believes he is the wisest person. While this may seem not worthwhile, because it is a claim of praise, imagine if a detestable claim had been made about Socrates’ character. By being willing to go and explore the question further, and seek out evidence, Socrates would be able to prove against a negative remark on his character, and save his reputation, showing how an examined life is a good and worthwhile life. There is also benefit to examining positive claims, because you can find evidence to support the statement and defend yourself. Also, others can use these traits as an example on how to live a respected life as well by examining their own life and implementing them, leading to a good life for