PLATO
James Glass
Plato is one of the greatest philosophers of all time, who’s work inspired Greek culture. “Plato was the first western philosopher whose written works have survived, and these are now studied in universities all over the world.” (Magee,11)
Ariston and his wife had a son they named Aristophanes, which we know as Plato. Plato lived during “427-347 BCE.” (Plato,1) His father died young when Plato was only a child. Shortly after his death Plato’s mother married Pyrilamps. Since Plato inherited a large amount of riches and reputation from his family he was able to spend more time on philosophy.
Plato’s teacher of philosophy was Socrates. Socrates believed in a questioning method of learning, which Plato also followed. However, Plato found his own way of thinking, but never actually left Socrates methods behind. Socrates believed everyone should think for themselves and that is what Plato did. He passed that on to Aristotle who was in similar genius. “His commitment to thinking for oneself, taking nothing for granted, being ready to question every thing and every body”, is what was thought to have carried him forward. (Magee,26)
Some of Plato’s most famous writings were Gorgias (a consideration of several ethical questions), Meno (a discussion of the nature of knowledge), The Apology (Socrates defense of himself at trial), Crito (laws of the state), and The Republic (Political Science) .
“The major intent of the debate in the Republic is to determine an extended definition of what constitutes justice in a given state.”(Republic,1) The Republic also asked how justice would be accomplished. It was thought to be a “question of meaning” to a “question of policy.” (1) Plato said “What is a just state” and ”Who is a just individual?”
The Apology was written a few years after the trial of Socrates. “The term apology literally means speech before.” (Reading,2) It does not mean to be sorry because Socrates was not sorry or regretted his actions in his life.
Socrates and Plato made the first center of philosophy. Plato and Socrates spent many years coming up with the plans and money to build the great center. The academy was open to the public and welcomed all readers of philosophy as well as learners. Plato had a sign that read: “Let noone enter here who is ignorant of mathematics”, that hung on the door of the academy.
Plato was one of the “four philosophers most revered by the time of the renaissance.” (Magee,22) His works have inspired many young minds as well as other great philosophers of today.
“Everything in this world is always becoming something else, but nothing ever just permanently is.”
~Plato~
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