1. How do the Greek Philosophers influence the way we think today?

2. I. Philosopher: Socrates
A. Used a question & answer approach to discuss social & moral issues
B. Examined key issues like goodness & justice
C. Told students to question their closest beliefs
D. Put on trial for “corrupting the minds of youth” in Athens
E. Most famous student was Plato
II. Philosopher: Plato
A. Plato defended his teacher in many of his books
B. Plato believed that humans were naturally selfish & corrupt
C. In his book Republic, he argues the best type of government would be run by philosopher-kings
D. Most famous student was Aristotle

3. III. Philosopher: Aristotle
A. Aristotle studied both philosophy & science
B. Believed man wanted to be governed but needed laws to guide him
C. In his book Politics he said man was a “political animal”
1. To tame the wild beast (man) all must adhere to (obey) laws & rules
D. Very influential in the idea of “no one is above the law”
IV. Greek society respected intelligence & reason. Democracy flourished since Greeks believed the individual was significant

4. BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS AS A CLASS
Aristotle’s Politics
After reading In Search of the Best Constitution, answer these questions (in comp sentences in your notes)
BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS AS A CLASS
1. What does a right constitution serve, what does a wrong constitution serve?
2. According to Aristotle, when is kingship “good” and when can a king become a tyrant?
Why did Aristotle favor rule by the aristocracy?
Why did Aristotle think democracy was dangerous? What did he say about demagogues?
5. What positive statement does he make about democracy?
6. What did Aristotle think was the best constitution?