GREEK PHILOSOPHERS AND THE ROMANS

D. Greek Philosophers

1. Socrates (469 B.C. – 399 B.C) a.) got into trouble for questioning the customs, traditions and values of Athens i. Socratic Method- questioning until truth ii. Loss to Sparta= frustrations taken out on Socrates iii. accused of corrupting the youth iv. Teachings were for the good of Athens v. sentenced to death vi. Plato’s writings

2. Plato • average citizens of a democracy were unable to govern wisely- lacked wisdom • quest to bring out the best out in people a. The Republic- discussed the ideal forms of government i. roles based on talent ii. Education was important iii. Need to balance between mob rule and tyranny didn’t like democracy or autocracy

iv. Wisdom + Power = philosopher king v. Careful Division of Labor a. philosopher kings b. warriors c. artisans

• 3. Aristotle a. Humans are “stateless beasts” without gov’t i. ability to reason ii. People learn to be good iii. Common good best iv. Society AND gov’t allows humans to reach full potential b. favored democracy over monarchy and aristocracy but thought it was unrealistic - middle class would rule c. Settled on Kings taking advice on ruling from philosophers

III. Rome Developed New Political Ideas A. Romans established a republic by overthrowing their kings (509 B.C.) 1. Republic B. Rome’s Social Organization 1. Family important a. Eldest male – pater familias (patria potestas) b. Woman ran the household -could own property

2. Society Divided into classes a. patrician -dominated Roman politics b. plebeians -common farmers, artisans, and merchants - free citizens *Birth alone determined Roman’s social and political status

C. Written Law 1. 12 Tables (451 B.C) D. Rome Achieved a Balanced Gov’t 1. Two Consuls a. power limited by term and veto

2. Senate -600 members for life -controlled finances and foreign affairs 3. 2 Assemblies 4. Dictator - in time of crisis a leader could be chosen - lasted 6 months E. Wars and Civil Unrest  Emperor  Collapse of Republic Roman Empire 