About the book
In this highly original and provocative book, Sara Ahbel-Rappe argues that the Platonic dialogues contain an esoteric Socrates who signifies a profound commitment to self-knowledge and whose appearances in the dialogues are meant to foster the practice of self-inquiry. According to Ahbel-Rappe, the elenchus, or inner examination, and the thesis that virtue is knowledge, are tools for a contemplative practice that teaches us how to investigate the mind and its objects directly. In other words, the Socratic persona of the dialogues represents wisdom, which is distinct from and serves as the larger space in which Platonic knowledge—ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics—is constructed. Ahbel-Rappe offers complete readings of the Apology, Charmides, Alcibiades I, Euthyphro, Lysis, Phaedrus, Theaetetus, and Parmenides, as well as parts of the Republic. Her interpretation challenges two common approaches to the figure of Socrates: the thesis that the dialogues represent an \"early\" Plato who later disavows his reliance on Socratic wisdom, and the thesis that Socratic ethics can best be expressed by the construct of eudaimonism or egoism.
Editions of Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781438469270
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781438469263
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438469287
Read an Excerpt
In this highly original and provocative book, Sara Ahbel-Rappe argues that the Platonic dialogues contain an esoteric Socrates who signifies a profound commitment to self-knowledge and whose appearances in the dialogues are meant to foster the practice of self-inquiry. According to Ahbel-Rappe, the elenchus, or inner examination, and the thesis that virtue is knowledge, are tools for a contemplative practice that teaches us how to investigate the mind and its objects directly. In other words, the Socratic persona of the dialogues represents wisdom, which is distinct from and serves as the larger space in which Platonic knowledge—ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics—is constructed. Ahbel-Rappe offers complete readings of the Apology, Charmides, Alcibiades I, Euthyphro, Lysis, Phaedrus, Theaetetus, and Parmenides, as well as parts of the Republic. Her interpretation challenges two common approaches to the figure of Socrates: the thesis that the dialogues represent an \"early\" Plato who later disavows his reliance on Socratic wisdom, and the thesis that Socratic ethics can best be expressed by the construct of eudaimonism or egoism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato about?
In this highly original and provocative book, Sara Ahbel-Rappe argues that the Platonic dialogues contain an esoteric Socrates who signifies a profound commitment to self-knowledge and whose appearances in the dialogues are meant to foster the practice of self-inquiry. According to Ahbel-Rappe, the elenchus, or inner examination, and the thesis that virtue is knowledge, are tools for a contemplative practice that teaches us how to investigate the mind and its objects directly. In other words, the Socratic persona of the dialogues represents wisdom, which is distinct from and serves as the larger space in which Platonic knowledge—ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics—is constructed. Ahbel-Rappe offers complete readings of the Apology, Charmides, Alcibiades I, Euthyphro, Lysis, Phaedrus, Theaetetus, and Parmenides, as well as parts of the Republic. Her interpretation challenges two common approaches to the figure of Socrates: the thesis that the dialogues represent an \"early\" Plato who later disavows his reliance on Socratic wisdom, and the thesis that Socratic ethics can best be expressed by the construct of eudaimonism or egoism.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato?
Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy
Where can I read a sample of Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781438469270
How long is Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato and how many pages does it have?
Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato has 296 page(s)
Is Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Western Esoteric Traditions
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato?
Sara Ahbel-Rappe
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781438469270) and paperback(ISBN 9781438469263) and pdf(ISBN 9781438469287)
Where can I buy Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato from below
Where can I buy Socratic Ignorance and Platonic Knowledge in the Dialogues of Plato?