Euthyphros central attempt to define piety does so in terms of what all the Gods love. Socrates deploys a number of considerations in objecting to this definition (Plato Five Dialogues pg.11-14) but there is a line of argument that can be traced throughout his discussion that leads to the conclusion that the definition is untenable. Lay out this argument making sure to leave behind extraneous detail or tangential issues that dont contribute directly to Socrates refutation of Euthyphros definition. (The subsequent discussion of justice and care of the Gods is not relevant to this essay.) Then critically discuss Socrates argument are there assumptions or moves that he makes that can reasonably be questioned in defense of Euthyphro?
Back