Platonic Paradox
To research Plato's paradox in the Meno, we can first consult the definition of what platonism is. Websters defines platonism as "actual things are copies of transcendent ideas and that these ideas are the objects of true knowledge apprehended by reminiscence." For this essay, we will assume that trancendency is- "that which is beyond comprehension", and reminiscence as "past experience". The Meno is a dialogue between Socrates, a scholar and Meno, who eventually became an explorer. For this essay, however, we will assume that Meno is at the time of the dialogue, an upper-class citizen of average to better than average intelligence and superior stubbornness. The piece, according to the ...
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Socrates also brings up a key distinction between true opinion and knowledge, relating to the paradox, which will too be examined. Socrates then gives basis for more argument regarding the paradox, and why he does this will also be examined.
The initial argument takes place when Socrates challenges Meno to define virtue. Meno does not realize here what he has started. Meno has before inquired whether virtue is a quality that can be taught or if it is a natural trait, that men are born with. Socrates, in method true to form, twists the question and re-poses it to Meno to see if Meno can answer it all on his own. Meno lists what he thinks are virtuous qualities, and is content at that simple definition. Socrates then says:
"I seem to be in luck, Meno, while I am looking for one virtue, I have found you to have a whole swarm of them."
Meno's frustration begins to set in. He tries theatrical metaphor to define virtue, as well as relating to physical philosophy and philosophers ...
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the larger square we are told is two feet, making it an eight foot figure total, or so the boy believes. What we are told is that
"the eight foot square is double the four foot square and half the sixteen foot square, double the square based on a line two feet long, and half the square based on a four-foot side, so it must be based on a line between two and four feet in length. The slave naturally suggests three feet, but that gives a nine foot square and is still wrong"
Another paradox has been created. That which we thought was very simple makes no sense at all without careful thinking, and even then, can make no sense. What Socrates has done is he has taken a simple thing and made it ...
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"Platonic Paradox." Essayworld.com. Essayworld.com, 17 Nov. 2008. Web. 23 Dec. 2024. <http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Platonic-Paradox/93213>
"Platonic Paradox." Essayworld.com. November 17, 2008. Accessed December 23, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Platonic-Paradox/93213.
"Platonic Paradox." Essayworld.com. November 17, 2008. Accessed December 23, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Platonic-Paradox/93213.
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