Delve into Plato's whimsical take on philosophy through his narrative in the 'Symposium', akin to a literary fan fiction. Explore the intriguing 'Theory of Forms' and ponder what truly defines objects, like a tree. Uncover the unsettling insights of the 'Allegory of the Cave', questioning if our perceptions are mere shadows. Finally, grasp Plato's critical view on democracy, which he ranks just above tyranny, alongside his visionary hopes for a government led by wise philosopher-kings.
45:01
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Plato's Travels
Plato, heartbroken by Socrates' execution, left Athens for 12 years.
He traveled extensively, studying with various philosophers and possibly reaching Egypt.
insights INSIGHT
True Philosophers
Plato redefined "philosopher" as more than a mere fact-lover.
True philosophers use their minds to pursue wisdom itself, not just its spectacle.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Plato's Fanfiction
Plato's writing, like "crossover fanfiction," used real figures in fictional dialogues.
He typecast Socrates as the wise figure to solidify his legacy.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In 'Timaeus,' Plato presents a detailed account of the formation of the universe. The dialogue is primarily delivered through long monologues by Timaeus and Critias. It describes the universe as the product of a rational, purposive, and beneficent agency, created by a divine Craftsman (Demiurge) who imitates an eternal and unchanging model. The work discusses the distinction between the eternal and the physical worlds, the composition of the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water) linked to Platonic solids, and the creation of the cosmic soul and its role in governing the universe. The dialogue also touches on various philosophical themes, including the nature of God, the distinction between the sensible and intellectual, and the concepts of time and space[1][3][5].
Symposium
Plato
The Symposium is a philosophical dialogue written by Plato around 370 BCE. It depicts a friendly contest of extemporaneous speeches given by a group of notable Athenian men, including Socrates, Alcibiades, and Aristophanes, in praise of Eros, the god of love. The dialogue is structured as a series of speeches, each developing the ideas of the previous one, and culminates in Socrates' speech, which recounts his conversation with the wise woman Diotima. The work explores various aspects of love, including its benefits, its connection to philosophy, and its role in human happiness. The setting is a banquet at the house of the tragedian Agathon, where the men engage in drinking and conversation, leading to heartfelt and noble speeches about love[1][2][5].
The Apology
The Defense of Socrates
Plato
In 'The Apology,' Plato presents Socrates' defense against the charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. Socrates argues that he is innocent and that his actions are divinely inspired, as indicated by the Oracle at Delphi. He defends his method of questioning and exposing the ignorance of others, which he believes is a service to the state. Despite his defense, Socrates is found guilty and sentenced to death. The dialogue is a powerful critique of the Athenian justice system and a testament to Socrates' commitment to his philosophical principles.
The Republic
Plato
In this week's episode, we learn about Plato's "Symposium", which you might think of as philosophy's version of fan fiction. We also learn about Plato's "Theory of Forms" and ask ourselves what makes a tree, well, a tree. This leads to discussion of Plato's famous "Allegory of the Cave" and calls into question whether or not everything we see is merely a shadow of its true self. Finally, we learn about Plato's views on society and government and why he thought democracy was one of the worst forms of government, second only to tyranny.
Philosophize This! 
