Why Was Socrates Impiety

Bryana Peralta Professor Hugh Philosophy 110 16 June 2024.

Socrates: Guilty or Not? Socrates, wise philosopher of ancient Athens, came across charges that we would soon come to question. These charges included impiety and corrupting the youth. The profound accusations were brought forth in 399 BC when he was put on trial by figures of the Athenian community. In my belief, Socrates was fundamentally innocent of these charges, which were driven not by malice but by a relentless pursuit of truth and virtue. So what does impiety mean? And why was Socrates innocent of it? Well, impiety, means not being piety, meaning having the quality of being religious or reverent. The charge of impiety showed that Socrates did not believe in the gods that were

When he questioned religious beliefs, it wasn’t to disrespect them, but to seek genuine understanding and encourage Athenians to think more deeply. It all started when Socrates was told by the Oracle at Delphi that “no one was wiser than Socrates”(Peterson). He wasn’t disrespectful, but more so “puzzled” (Peterson). With his determination, he set out to test and seek knowledge from people who believed themselves to be considered wise. This approach reflected his commitment to intellectual honesty and spiritual exploration, rather than impiety. Not only was he charged with impiety, but he was also charged with “corrupting the youth of Athens” (Kaplan). This accusation referred to the idea that his teachings and influence were leading young Athenians astray morally and intellectually. He was seen as encouraging young people to doubt traditional values and norms. This could be seen as dangerous because it might undermine respect for authority and social order. But he himself said “I did not corrupt them, or I corrupted them unintentionally” (The Apology of Socrates). Socrates instilled in his students a commitment to truth, justice, and intellectual integrity. He