He could very likely have appealed for leniency. At least he could have saved his life by agreeing to leave Athens. But had he done this he would not have been Socrates. He valued his conscience--and the truth-- higher than life.
Jostein GaarderHegel said that `truth` is subjective, thus rejecting the existence of any `truth` above or beyond human reason. All knowledge is human knowledge.
Jostein GaarderI've nothing against eye make-up and lipstick. But the fact is that weโre actually living on a planet in space. For me thatโs an extraordinary thought. Itโs mind-boggling just to think about the existence of space at all. But there are girls who canโt see the universe for eye liner.
Jostein GaarderI sat thinking how terribly sad it was that people are made in such a way that they get used to something as incredible as living. One day we suddenly take the fact that we exist for granted - and then, yes, then we donโt think about it anymore until we are about to leave the world again.
Jostein GaarderSocrates himself said, 'One thing only I know, and this is that I know nothing.' Remember this statement, because it is an admission that is rare, even among philosophers. Moreover, it can be so dangerous to say in public that it can cost you your life. The most subversive people are those who ask questions. Giving answers is not nearly as threatening. Any one question can be more explosive than a thousand answers.
Jostein Gaarder