by Manuel Marino | Philosophy
Plato is renowned as one of the world’s greatest philosophers. He was born in 429 BC, around the time of the death of Pericles, and lived for almost eighty years until the period that began with the birth of Alexander the Great. He came from an aristocratic Athenian family who were fairly wealthy according to the customs of that time. Many of Plato’s relatives were actively involved in Athenian politics, but he himself avoided such activities.
During his youth, Plato became fascinated by the teachings and ideas of Socrates to such an extent that he attended the academy set up by Socrates. Plato was only thirty years old when Socrates was executed in prison for his supposed offenses against the gods.
Deeply affected by Socrates’ death, Plato set out to write down the conversations he had with his mentor. Today, most of what we know about Socrates, the man and his philosophy, comes from the texts composed by Plato.
Over time, Plato began to develop his own concepts and theories, particularly in the realm of politics. One of his most famous works is “The Republic,” in which he presents his ideas on how a better government could … ...Read the rest.
“Philosophy Of Plato”
by Manuel Marino | Philosophy
Traveling extensively throughout Greece during his lifetime, Protagoras was born in Abdera, Thrace around 490 B.C.E. and passed away around 420 B.C.E. It is widely believed that Protagoras spent a significant amount of time in Athens during his travels, but as a Sophist, he likely journeyed throughout Greece to engage with unique students.
Before delving into Protagoras, it is important to note a few cautions. We have limited sources available, and his historical context greatly influences the interpretation of his work.
Limited Sources
Similar to many other Pre-Socratic philosophers, there are few remaining sources on Protagoras. Our main sources come from Plato, Diogenes Laertius, and Sextus Empiricus. However, the latter two historians lived several centuries after Protagoras’ death, raising questions about the reliability of their sources. On the other hand, we heavily rely on Diogenes for accounts of the Pre-Socratics.
Sophism and Its Historical Context
In the 5th century B.C.E., the term “Sophists” referred to individuals who were renowned for their wisdom or those who professionally taught students.
The “Older” Sophists, including Protagoras, Prodicus, Gorgias, Euthydemus, Thrasymachus, and Hippias, were characterized by their epistemological and moral relativism, theological agnosticism, and persuasive rhetoric. We can learn much about these philosophers from … ...Read the rest.
“The First Sophist and Grammarian: Protagoras of Abdera”
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