I made an outline on what to write specifically. The essay has to be 60% expository and I
cant pick a side and 40% percent has to be crtitical in which I elaborate about Meletus
objection. Also for the source it was not required to read the text so our professor gave an
overview in class about the text that I wrote out.
I. Introduction
A. Brief overview of Plato’s “Apology” and
Socrates’ defense
B. Statement of Socrates: “the unexamined life is
not worth living”
C. Introduction of Meletus’ opposition argument
II. Explanation of Socrates’ Claim
A. Definition of the examined life
1. Constant questioning and self-reflection
2. Pursuit of wisdom and understanding
B. Consequences of the unexamined life
1. Living in ignorance and unawareness
2. Lack of personal growth and fulfillment
III. Ethical Implications for American Society
A. Emphasis on critical thinking
1. Importance of questioning assumptions and beliefs
2. Encouragement of intellectual curiosity
B. Value of self-reflection
1. Promotion of introspection and self-awareness
2. Acknowledgment of individual responsibility and
accountability
C. Pursuit of moral and intellectual virtue
1. Commitment to ethical conduct and moral development
2. Recognition of the inherent worth of a
well-examined life
IV. Opposition: Meletus’ Argument
A. Meletus’ accusation against Socrates
1. Allegation of corrupting the youth
2. Charge of impiety
B. Meletus’ view on the examined life
1. Emphasis on adherence to societal norms and
traditions
2. Rejection of critical inquiry and philosophical
exploration
C. Critique of Socrates’ perspective
1. Assertion that Socrates’ examination disrupts
social order
2. Argument that Socrates’ questioning undermines
religious beliefs and values
V. Reconciliation and Response
A. Evaluation of Meletus’ opposition
1. Consideration of societal norms and traditional
values
2. Examination of potential consequences of unchecked
questioning
B. Defense of Socrates’ perspective
1. Reiteration of the value of critical thinking and
self-reflection
2. Emphasis on the role of philosophical inquiry in
personal and societal advancement
VI. Conclusion
A. Recap of Socrates’ assertion and Meletus’
opposition
B. Reflection on the ongoing relevance of Socratic
philosophy in contemporary society
C. Call to action for individuals to engage in
thoughtful examination while navigating societal norms and values