Plato's work focuses on the philosopher Socrates, who has been condemned to death for "corrupting the youth" of Athens. Crito attempts to encourage his escape, but Aristotle refuses, on the grounds of his own personal set of ethics. For Socrates, ethics and values are closely related to one's reverence for the government. This stems from a specific paradigm of the time, that citizens are not on equal terms with the government. The government knows best and should not be questioned. Socrates uses the parent-child analogy to explain this vi

This is the situation with the war in Iraq. Many citizens feel that this war is instigated with a hidden agenda behind the "war against terrorism" ideal. There have therefore been many protests against this war and against the government and its actions. This protest stems from a concern for the well-being of innocent citizens perishing at the hands of politicians and their army. Many cannot in good conscience allow this to continue without protesting against it.

Nonetheless, like Socrates, King continues to show the utmost respect for the government and its officials. This stems from lessons from history, that violent action breeds more violence rather than change. Peaceful protests, with a demonstration of respect for the opponent, are much more effective in King's view.

Furthermore Thoreau is of the view that the American people has enough character within themselves to have accomplished the country as it was during his time. The government often tends to take credit for the way a country has grown and developed. Instead, Thoreau calls for a greater focus on the contribution of citizens. This also contrasts with Socrates' view, that anarchy will inevitably result with the absence of a governing body.

According to King, it is not wrong to disagree with the government. This contrasts sharply with Aristotle's view, asserting that the government in all cases knows best and should be viewed as a parent figure. The situation in King's United States however is different - a certain sector of society was treated unjustly, and this is worthy of protest. I tend to lean towards King's view, that the public should take responsibility for what is perceived as immoral or incorrect actions by the government.

While it is admirable that Socrates held to his individual values in order to set a good example for his followers, I do not believe that this individualistic point of view is applicable to politics today. Today's politics focus on equality and the fact that the government, like other human beings, makes mistakes. The law is no longer seen as unchangeable. Instead, there is a democracy that ensures all citizens of a voice and a vote. Socrates takes a passive point of view. Today's focus is on active protest whenever it is felt that the government is in error. Furthermore, the philosopher focuses on his own individual sense of justice and honor. Today's political views focus rather on the well-being of the nation as a whole. Thus, when any kind of oppression takes place, many citizens feel that it is their responsibility to protest.

All three philosophers above ment

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Approximate Word count = 1762
Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page double spaced)