Overview
What comes first? The words to describe something or the thought about certain phenomena such as for example death? Language as a mode of thought is one of the characteristics that allow human beings to come to terms with difficult questions in life and communicate these with others. Socrates in the Apology argues that he does not fear death. He offers a number of reasons for his claim, which you analyzed in the group discussion.
While analyzing the argument, consider whether the language you use is shaping your thought or thought is shaping your language. Use your “mental eye” to observe how you come to argue what you argue. You will not have to include these thoughts into your written argument but keep them in mind.
Primary Readings:
Plato. Apology 35e-42 (IP 33-37).