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For over two thousand years, Socratic dialogues have had a deep effect on the progression of society. A key example of an effective Socratic dialogue is that of Plato’s Euthyphro. Socrates demonstrates, among other things, the extent to which in our youth we are the most ignorant. In addition, he utilizes his conversation with Euthyphro to accomplish certain things that directly benefit only him. He uses this conversation to show that he is truly …

…to recognize the inherent ignorance found in his persecutor. In recognizing the ignorance within Euthyphro, Socrates gains the confidence needed to stand up for himself and defend both his actions and intelligence or lack thereof. “I must simply fight with shadows in my own defense, and examine when there is no one who answers.” (p. 28) It is only as a result of Euthyphro’s incessant ignorance and lack of knowledge that gives Socrates his confidence.