Socratic Paradox

The Socratic Paradox and Its Enemies

"If Socrates is essentially an agonistic thinker, Weiss argues, then the things he says and how outrageously he says them cannot be properly interpreted in isolation from the notions he opposes. Viewed in the context of these opposing ideas, the paradoxes emerge as Socrates' means of championing the cause of justice in the face of those who would impugn it. Furthermore, since Protagoras, Hippias, Gorgias, Polus, Callicles, and Meno exhibit different symptoms of the same malady - a fascination with worldly success above all else - Weiss shows how the paradoxes change form as Socrates tailors them to combat these various kinds of resistance to the ideals of justice and temperance. Such an unorthodox reading, ranging over six key dialogues, is sure to spark debate in philosophy, classics, and political theory."--BOOK JACKET.

The Socratic Paradoxes and the Greek Mind

In assessing what the paradoxes meant to Plato, O'Brien uses certain broad principles of inquiry. First, he insists, any platonic doctrine must be placed in the context of Plato's whole philosophy--a truism not always honored. Second, the conversations of the dialogue form do not merely embellish Plato's philosophical statements but radically affect their expression. Originally published in 1967. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.

The Socratic Paradoxes and Virtue and Happiness in Plato's Earlier Dialogues