ates himself was disturbed by such a bold allegation, but continued to question a group of wise men to determine if they were indeed wise. He came to the conclusion that he oracle was indeed correct: whereas others are unaware of their limitations, Socrates at least knows and acknowledges his own ignorance. Further investigation by Socrates leads him to the final conclusion that many Athenians who consider themselves wise are more foolish than lesser men (Plato, Apology). Socrates understands his being by knowing his limits and own ignorance. This makes him a virtuous man in his mind. Knowing ones true self is not the only characteristic of a virtuous man to Socrates. A virtuous man does not question other human beings, but takes what they have bestowed upon him as Gods command. Socrates believed that one God decides the fate of every human being, and that if he was to die by the hands of Athens then he shall. Crito urged Socrates to escape the prison, which he was being held within, but Socrates knew he would only be disgracing himself if he escaped. Socrates would not be able to live with himself because he would be disobeying God in order to save his own life. To Socrates, death is preferable to disgrace. He chose to live according to Gods command in order to fulfill his mission as a philosopher. Socrates believes that escaping from an imposed prison sentence would be wrong and would jeopardize his principles for which he stands. He also realizes that he has a duty to Athens and must pay back the judgment of the courts. Socrates notes that the obedience to the law will be the supreme test of Socrates lifelong philosophy, therefore, he must not avoid death at the cost of principle (Crito).Socrates was a virtuous man because of the principles he stood upon. He would not crumble and escape from his death sentence because of his morals. He not only died at the expense of not disgracing his own self, but also because of wh...
