"Philebus" by Plato is a philosophical conversation where Socrates and Protarchus discuss what is truly good, with Philebus initially arguing that pleasure is most important. The book looks closely at different types of pleasures and knowledge, questioning if they are as valuable as we think when compared to the idea of a perfect good. The conversation begins by revisiting earlier arguments about pleasure and wisdom, with Protarchus defending the idea that pleasure is the ultimate goal. As they talk, Socrates challenges Protarchus, leading to a detailed look at different types of pleasures, both good and bad. Socrates hints that something even better than pleasure and wisdom might exist, pushing them to investigate the true nature of each. The dialogue explores detailed classifications and categories, setting the stage for a discussion about what really makes a good life.
Philebus
By Plato
In a battle of ideas, characters debate the true meaning of a good life, questioning if happiness or knowledge reigns supreme.
Summary
About the AuthorPlato, born Aristocles, was an ancient Greek philosopher of the Classical period who is considered a foundational thinker in Western philosophy and an innovator of the written dialogue and dialectic forms. He raised problems for what became all the major areas of both theoretical philosophy and practical philosophy, and was the founder of the Platonic Academy, a philosophical school in Athens where Plato taught the doctrines that would later become known as Platonism.
Plato, born Aristocles, was an ancient Greek philosopher of the Classical period who is considered a foundational thinker in Western philosophy and an innovator of the written dialogue and dialectic forms. He raised problems for what became all the major areas of both theoretical philosophy and practical philosophy, and was the founder of the Platonic Academy, a philosophical school in Athens where Plato taught the doctrines that would later become known as Platonism.
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