Plato is considered one of the greatest philosophers in history. ... The chains that hold the prisoners represent humanity's inability to become enlightened, either because of internal forces such as stubbornness, laziness, or external forces such as government or religion. ... Plato is saying that the journey toward enlightenment, or the "sun", is difficult and long, and that people will fight against it because they are content in their ignorance. ...

• Word Count: 615
• Approx Pages: 2
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

The authority to enforce these codes, or laws, came from religions man had invented as a way to govern the masses. ... Religion and man's moral code of ethics needed examination in order to find out if it were truly the best way to live. ... Philosophy is more than examining religion or the foundations of a society's beliefs. ... We know more about the universe and our own physical world than the ancient philosophers could have imagined. We have gone through periods of enlightenment that has resulted in a society that prides itself on freedom and liberty. ...

• Word Count: 984
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School