Final answer:
The question relates to the philosophical conflict between political beliefs and moral principles. Through a Socratic viewpoint, an individual would prioritize morality, while political revolutions raise questions about legitimacy and violent means. These circumstances require an assessment of what constitutes the moral Good in societal governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether the barber gives greater priority to his political beliefs or his own sense of right and wrong, and what reason he gives for his decision. This scenario falls under the study of political ideologies and moral philosophy, tying into historical contexts of political legitimacy, duty, and revolutions.
Socrates, a pivotal figure in moral philosophy, argued that evil is the result of ignorance and believed that individuals would always choose what they perceive as good. If one chooses wrong, Socrates would say they are mistaken and require education to see the error. Considering the barber's dilemma through a Socratic lens, he would likely prioritize what he believes to be morally right, because Socrates held the view that knowledge leads to virtuous action, and virtue trumps political allegiance.
Political revolutions often bring up questions about legitimacy and the use of force. The question points towards evaluating whether violent upheavals are necessary and if they align with Enlightened ideals. Violent revolutions can sometimes lead to lasting change, but they may also be classified as treasonous depending on one's perspective.
When considering political ideology and moral philosophy, it is crucial to evaluate the principles a good citizen or government should adopt. This includes considering the moral Good and its application to societal governance, as elaborated by philosophers like John Rawls.