Crito, By Plato

Why I Chose to Listen to Crito, by Plato:

While I was in prison, The Republic by Plato became one of the most transformative books I read. Through that text, I learned from the teachings of Socrates, especially his method of questioning. I didn’t grow up studying philosophy–or studying much of anything at all. While in prison, I had time to reflect—and I realized that education could be my path to freedom. 

In The Republic, and specifically in the dialogue Crito, I found a method for thinking critically, for weighing consequences, and for making values-based decisions.

Recently, while going on a long walk with Carole, we talked about the influences that helped me through prison. I told her about Socrates, which she has heard many times. We decided to find an audio version that we could listen to and discuss. I found an audio version of the Crito dialogue on Audible, performed by two British actors. We listened together. Hearing the actors play the role of Socrates and Crito gave me a chance to explain how this short philosophical exchange reshaped the way I approach decisions, especially under pressure.

What I Learned from Listening to Crito:

In Crito, Socrates is in prison, sentenced to death by the Athenian court. His friend Crito comes to persuade him to escape, insisting that the sentence is unjust and that Socrates’ death would be a loss to his family, friends, and the broader community. The primary reason I read this story, I think, was because Socrates was in a jail cell and I was in solitary confinement. I could relate to him, and I appreciated the logical arguments, emotional appeals, and even practical plans for escape.

Socrates listened to his friend Crito—responding without emotion or impulse, but with reasoned questions:

• What is justice?
• Should we return injustice with more injustice?
• Do we have an obligation to uphold the social contract—even when it seems unfair?

Socrates concluded that just because others acted unjustly toward him, it did not justify his own injustice in return. His commitment was not to self-preservation, but to live in accordance with his values and principles.

That exchange taught me the discipline of holding my beliefs up to scrutiny. It taught me to ask why before I act—and to test every motive against the values I want to live by.

How I Use Socratic Questioning to Make Better Decisions and Teach Others:

The Socratic method shaped my journey. In prison, I faced countless decisions: how to use my time, who to associate with, how to respond to setbacks. Socratic questioning gave me a framework:

• “If I take this path, what message does it send about my values?”
  
  
• “What are the long-term consequences of this choice?”
  
  
• “What would I advise someone I care about if they were in my position?”
  
  

This constant questioning helped me live intentionally—even in a setting designed to strip away autonomy.

I use this same strategy in my teaching today. I urge those who enroll in our courses to reflect with questions:

• “What does success mean to you?”
• “What sacrifices are you willing to make?”
• “What story are you telling with your current decisions?”
  
  

By asking questions rather than giving answers, I help others develop the capacity to think independently. That’s what Socrates did. That’s what Crito modeled. That’s what I strive to do now through my writing, teaching, and business decisions.

Self-Directed Question for Reflection:

• What is one core value you claim to live by?
• How would Socratic questioning either reinforce or challenge the decisions you’ve made recently?

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