II. Short Answer Questions
Answer each of the following 4 questions with a 3-5 sentence paragraph. Write legibly and in full sentences. You may write on the back of the sheet.
(12 points each: 48 total)
1. What philosopher used the idea of Tetrapharmakon? What does this word mean? What is the purpose of this teaching? List and describe the different parts of this idea.
It was philosopher Philodemus who first used the idea of Tetrapharmakon. The word Tetrapharmakon means the Four Cures, which are the summary of the four basic doctrines:
- Do not fear the god
- Do not fear death
- Pleasure is easy to procure
- Suffering is easy to endure
2. Who argued that a healthy state must be built on a “noble lie”? What is this lie? Why is it necessary?
It was Socrates who argued that a healthy state must be built on a “ noble lie ”. The idea of the ideal city presupposes that the city should be maintained with the help of a noble lie, which is believed by Socrates to be politically useful. This lie should serve to create the loyalty of the people to the state itself
3. What are the main differences between the pre-Socratics and the Sophists? Name one philosopher from each group, and describe how they demonstrate the main features of pre-Socratic and sophistic philosophy.
Pre-Socratic philosophy is philosophy, which was not influenced by Socrates and took place before or contemporary to Socrates. Diogenes of Apollonia from Thrace was the representative of the Milesian school. He is said to be the last Pre-Socratic philosopher who adopted the single material principle.
The Sophists considered knowledge to be the most powerful instrument to rule the world. The Pre-Socratic philosophers seeked to find natural, rational explanations for phenomena they saw around them. They are said to tend to be more educators than philosophers. Protagoras from Abdera in Thrace is one of them who adopted the statement that there is no absolute truth.
4. Who wrote the Paradox of the Racecourse? Describe the Paradox of the Racecourse, as well as its significance. What is the purpose of this paradox?
The Racecourse, or dichotomy paradox, is based on simple pluralism which presupposes the idea that is something is divisible, it is said to be indivisible. Zeno dwells that none can get to the end of the race because in order to do so, you must traverse at least half of the distance to be covered.
Its purpose is to define the paradox management.
What sport did Plato play? (2 points)
Plato is known to be engaged in wrestling.
