Question

Euthyphro

Describe what happens to each of these responses in the discussion.( discussion between Socrates and Euthyphro )

Answer 1

The Euthyphro is one of plato's most interesting and importantly early dialogues. It focuses on the question: What is piety? Euthyphro, a priest of sorts, claims to know the answer, but Socrates shoots down each definition he proposes. After Five failed attempts to define piety euthyphro hurries off leaving the questions unanswered.

Euthyphro's 5 Definitions

Socrates says-- Tongue in cheek, as usual-- that he's delighted to find someone who's an expert on piety. Just what he need in his present situation. So he asks euthyphro to say what piety is. Euthyphro tries to do this five times, and each time socrates argues that the definition is inadequate.

1st Definition

Piety is what is euthyphro is doing now, namely prosecuting wrongdoers. Impiety is failing to do this.

2ndDefinition

Piety is what is loved by the gods. Impiety is what is hated by the gods.

3rd Definition

Piety is that part of justice concerned with caring for the gods

4th Definition

Piety is saying and doing what is pleasing to the gods at the prayer and sacrifice.

Conclusion

Although socrates generally gets the better of euthyphro, some of what euthyphro says makes a certain amount of sense. For instance, when asked what human beings can give the gods, he replies that we give them honor, reverence and gratitude. The british philosopher peter geach has argued that this a pretty good answer.