Question

Summarize the debate between Plato and Glaucon regarding doing the right thing. What does Plato conclude about doing the right thing, even when we can do the wrong thing without being discovered? What does the story of Gyges tell us about human nature? Are people naturally good or naturally bad? Discuss one example of a situation that involves the temptation to do something wrong without being found out. What reasons can you give for doing the right thing anyway?

A. Discuss Plato's view on ethics
B. Summarize the story of Gyges
C. Explore human nature in ethical dilemmas
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Plato concludes that doing the right thing is necessary, even when we can do the wrong thing without being discovered. The story of Gyges suggests that human nature is inherently self-interested and people are tempted to do wrong when they can get away with it. Reasons for doing the right thing include fairness, empathy, personal integrity, and justice.

Step-by-step explanation:

The debate between Plato and Glaucon regarding doing the right thing revolves around ethics. Plato concludes that doing the right thing is necessary, even when we can do the wrong thing without being discovered. He believes that people should be educated to see the error of their ways and choose what is good. The story of Gyges, in Plato's Republic, suggests that human nature is inherently self-interested and people are tempted to do wrong when they can get away with it. However, whether people are naturally good or bad is a philosophical question that does not have a definitive answer.

An example of a situation involving the temptation to do something wrong without being found out is when someone finds a lost wallet with money inside. They may be tempted to keep the money instead of making an effort to return it to its rightful owner.

Reasons for doing the right thing anyway include respecting the principles of fairness, empathy for others, maintaining personal integrity, and fostering a just society.