How a disillusioned politician became the architect of Western philosophy
In short: Explore the life of Plato, from his early interest in poetry to the founding of the Academy. This interview with Robin Waterకి Waterfield examines the man behind the myths and his failed political ambitions.
Born into a wealthy Athenian family at the end of the fifth century BCE, Plato originally intended to pursue politics. However, the execution of his teacher, Socrates, led him toward a life of teaching and writing.
The video explores Waterfield's biography, which navigates the many legends surrounding Plato's near-divine reputation. It investigates why Plato utilized the dialogue format for his works and reviews the subject matter of his entire catalogue of books. It also touches upon his unsuccessful attempt to design a constitution for Syracuse in Sicily.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: About the Philosopher Plato: Interview with Robin Waterfield
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