The text discusses Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher who was a pivotal figure in the development of Western philosophy alongside Socrates and Aristotle. Plato, originally named Aristocles, was a mathematician, the author of philosophical dialogues, and the founder of the Academy in Athens, which was the first institution of higher learning in the Western world. His works often reflect his influence from Socrates, particularly regarding the latter's unjust death. The introduction and analysis by Benjamin Jowett note that in Plato's later dialogues, such as "Statesman" and "Sophist," he tends to combine multiple subjects within a single discussion. Jowett observes a decline in Plato's writing style and dramatic power over time, with characters becoming less engaging and the main thesis sometimes overshadowed by digressions. Plato shifts his focus from the original concepts of sophistry to critiquing the sophistry of contemporary philosophical schools, emphasizing the importance of logical classification and common sense over transcendental speculation. He also distances himself from poetic forms, opting for a more technical language in his writings.

by Plato in English Philosophy

Writen by Plato

Category Philosophy