How Does Protagoras Teachable
In the dialogue Protagoras, by Plato, an encounter between a celebrated sophist by the name of Protagoras, and a philosopher by the name of Socrates, examines the different philosophical position each man has on whether ethics and virtue are an innate aspect of human beings, or are acquired skills human beings can be taught to perfect. The arrival of Protagoras in Athens calls attention to the question: is virtue teachable? Protagoras argues that virtue is teachable, which allows him the ability to teach his pupils the art of good citizenship, in both personal and civic affairs. However, Socrates’ belief in the teaching of ethics and virtue is in sharp contrast with Protagoras’. Socrates voices his disbelief in the teaching of virtue and goes on to further claim that virtue is something that cannot be taught and challenges Protagoras’s idea, expelling his reasoning through a series of examples. Although Socrates expresses his uncertainty in the idea of teaching ethics, it is
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However, from a young age we are taught the difference from what is right and what is wrong. This would support that notion virtuous qualities can indeed be shared and passed on to others. While we all may not share the same viewpoint on what is right or what is wrong, these ideas have be taught to us and have helped to shape our behavior. Therefore, Socrates’ belief that virtuous qualities are not emitted to others opposes an intrinsic fact that is exemplified by people such as Pericles in the dialogue. The mere fact that Pericles was trying to educate Cleinias demonstrates of how fathers or guardians aim to teach their children virtue and instill in them the qualities that make them outstanding
However, from a young age we are taught the difference from what is right and what is wrong. This would support that notion virtuous qualities can indeed be shared and passed on to others. While we all may not share the same viewpoint on what is right or what is wrong, these ideas have be taught to us and have helped to shape our behavior. Therefore, Socrates’ belief that virtuous qualities are not emitted to others opposes an intrinsic fact that is exemplified by people such as Pericles in the dialogue. The mere fact that Pericles was trying to educate Cleinias demonstrates of how fathers or guardians aim to teach their children virtue and instill in them the qualities that make them outstanding