Which of the following arguments proposed by Socrates supports the immortality of the soul?

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Prepare for ASU's PHI101 Introduction to Philosophy Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The Argument from Opposites is a philosophical reasoning utilized by Socrates to suggest the immortality of the soul. This argument posits that everything comes into being from its opposite: for example, life arises from death, and similarly, death must arise from life. Socrates argues that if the soul can die and come back to life, it implies that the soul exists before and beyond the physical body, thus supporting the notion that it is immortal.

In this context, the argument illustrates a cyclical relationship between the states of existence. If we accept that something can bring forth its opposite, then it follows that life and death are part of a continuum, with the soul persisting beyond physical demise. This reasoning lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the soul's nature, differentiating it from the transient physical world.

The other arguments mentioned do not focus specifically on the immortality of the soul. The Argument from Authority emphasizes the views of respected figures rather than direct reasoning about the soul. The Argument from Empiricism relies on observable evidence and experience, while the Argument from Sensation ties to physical experiences rather than metaphysical claims about the soul. Therefore, the Argument from Opposites stands out as the strongest support for the belief in the soul

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