Comparing Plato's Apology And Allegory Of The Cave

In analyzing great Philosophical literature, few works are as famous as Plato's Apology and Allegory of the Cave. Although lesser known to the uninitiated to the world of Philosophy, but certainly no less famous or important, is Voltaire's Good Brahman. At first glance, each of these works appears quite different and only have the commonality of being older Philosophy texts. However, upon closer examination we find that they have more in common, despite their less obvious differences. In the following paragraphs, we will seek to explain each work individually and then compare and contrast both Philosopher's works.

In the Apology by Plato, Socrates defends himself against his accusers in court, and begins by declaring that he is not an especially great speaker but that he only speaks the truth. In this, he tells his accusers that they should not fear him but only the truth itself. In the depiction of Socrates' last speech, he makes a bold claim that he has been deemed the wisest man in Athens by the god of Delphi ( Plato, ., Jowett, n.d. ). He goes on to explain that while he searched for those that thought themselves wise, they

The Brahman is unsatisfied in his knowledge and although however hard he seeks, cannot find the enlightenment he desires. Additionally, the Brahman is perplexed in how a simpleton woman who does not seek truth or knowledge, rather relies on religious doctrine, is perfectly happy in her ignorance of things. The Brahman goes on to explain to Voltaire that even though he could simply be happy by not acquiring and striving for enlightenment, he does not wish this (Voltaire, ., Woolf, n.d.). Voltaire proposes this question to other Philosopher's and each reach the same understanding that once you enter into the world of reason, there appears no end in sight, but however that this struggle is still better than being blissfully