Crito (Plato's work)

"Crito" is a dialogue by Plato featuring Socrates, who is imprisoned and awaiting execution. Crito, his friend, urges him to escape and save his life. Socrates argues instead for the importance of justice and upholding the law, emphasizing that one must not commit wrongs even in response to wrongs. He discusses the benefits of living a virtuous life over simply seeking survival, positing that harming the state by escaping would undermine the very principles he values. The work explores themes of justice, morality, and the social contract, highlighting the conflict between personal desires and ethical obligations.