The lecture begins with an explanation of why Plato's Apology is the best introductory text to the study of political philosophy. The focus remains on the Apology as a symbol for the violation of free expression, with Socrates justifying his way of life as a philosopher and defending the utility of philosophy for political life.

Reading assignment:

Plato, Apology of Socrates; Crito

Resources: Plato, Apology, translated with an introduction by Benjamin Jowett Courtesy of the University of Adelaide Library Electronic Texts Collection Plato, Crito, translated with an introduction by Benjamin Jowett Courtesy of the University of Adelaide Library Electronic Texts Collection