Philosophy 313
Midterm: October 15, 2015
Study sheet for Midterm
The following list of terms and concepts is to assist you in studying for the short answer section
of the test. There will be 10 short answer questions on the test, of which you are to answer 8 (5
points each):
Socratic method
knowledge vs. opinion
fact/value distinction
justice
parts of the soul
more reality/more satisfaction
analogy of the cave
Ideas (or Forms)
teleology
righteous indignation
habituation
good will
good with/without qualifications
argument for free will
respect/person
happiness
mean
pleasure/happiness distinction
reason
vice and virtue
good friends
first nature/second nature
TRC
overcompensation
capital punishment
moderation in all things
categorical/hypothetical imperative
duty
consistency in actions
universality test
Two of the following essay questions will be on the midterm (just as they appear here), and you
are to write on one of them (60 points):
1. In the Euthyphro, Socrates questions Euthyphro about the nature of holiness. This form
of questioning has often been called the Socratic method. Explain Socrates' manner of
questioning. This process of questioning also led both to Socrates' eventual trial and
conviction, and it led to his conclusion that if he is wise it is only insofar as he knows that
he knows nothing. What is the positive significance of recognizing that one knows they
know nothing, and how, especially for Socrates, does this tie in to ethics?
2. Aristotle argues that to be happy we must make the right decisions as consistently and
often as we can. Detail the argument that Aristotle lays out to justify this claim and
elaborate what it means and entails. Be sure to give specific examples to clarify the points
you make (preferably your own examples). Turn then to discuss why only the virtuous
person can be happy, and how one might correct their vices in order to become happy.
And finally, discuss the TRC as it relates to what Aristotle argues.
3. Kant argues, unlike Aristotle, that happiness is not the highest end of human action for
without a good will even happiness can be a bad thing. Explain the argument behind
Kant’s claim. With this argument in place, explain what leads Kant to the categorical and
practical imperative. Be sure to give examples throughout your essay.