When Socrates claims that "right opinion is a different thing from knowledge," he means that there is a distinction between having true beliefs (right opinions) and possessing genuine knowledge. According to Socrates, knowledge goes beyond mere belief or opinion because it is based on rational understanding and justification. True knowledge involves grasping the reasons and justifications behind a belief, whereas right opinion may lack such justification.
Socrates supports this belief by highlighting the importance of understanding the difference between knowledge and mere belief. He engages in dialogues with others, questioning their beliefs and opinions, aiming to uncover inconsistencies or lack of justification in their reasoning. Through his method of questioning and critical examination, known as the Socratic method, Socrates reveals that many people hold beliefs without a solid foundation of knowledge.
Regarding Socrates' claim that virtue is a "gift of god," he believed that virtue was not something that could be taught or learned solely through human efforts. He viewed virtue as a divine endowment, a quality bestowed upon individuals by the gods. Socrates argued that genuine virtue could not be acquired through mere instruction or practice; it required divine guidance and inspiration.
Socrates believed that if virtue were solely a product of human instruction, then all people would possess it, as virtue would be taught and learned like any other skill. However, he observed that many individuals lacked virtue despite receiving instruction. Therefore, Socrates concluded that virtue must come from a divine source, as it transcends human abilities and understanding.
Whether Socrates' claim that virtue is a "gift of god" is true or not is a matter of philosophical debate. It depends on one's perspective and belief system. Some may agree with Socrates and interpret virtue as a transcendent quality bestowed by a higher power. Others may hold different views, seeing virtue as a result of personal development, societal influences, or ethical reasoning.
Ultimately, the truth of Socrates' claim remains a topic of philosophical exploration and interpretation, with varying perspectives among different philosophers and individuals.