Socrates Against Athens: Philosophy on Trial

With valuable historical and cultural descriptions of Socrates' Athens, James Colaiaco evokes the scene and sense of the great philosopher's trial. Socrates against Athens explores both sides of the tragic collision of values between the philosopher and the state, engaging the fundamental question of whether philosophy and politics are compatible. The complexity and significance of the trial is illuminated through discussion of such important elements as the nature of Athenian democracy, the polis ideal, Greek shame culture, Athenian religion, civil disobedience, and Socrates' rejection of politics.