Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.8. Plato’s Defense of Socrates’ PoliticsSocrates had been studiously non-political. He had not embroiled himself in the political issues of the day, as vital as they often were…1d ago1d ago
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.7. Socrates in the Political ArenaWe noted that Plato begins this dialogue with a declaration of war. The Gorgias is a dialogue very unlike any other early dialogue Plato…4d ago4d ago
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.6. The True StatesmanEarly in his discussion with Socrates, Callicles makes an ominous warning to Socrates:6d ago16d ago1
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First Philosophers11.5 Does Might Make Right?At this point Socrates has effectively silenced Polus, showing, among other things, that committing injustice is more disgraceful and…Sep 2Sep 2
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.4. Power and GoodnessAs the debate between Socrates and Polus develops, Polus is shocked at Socrates’ contempt for orators and their alleged art. “How can you…Aug 30Aug 30
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.3. Oratory as a CraftAt this point Polus intervenes. He is offended by Socrates’ refutation and eager to defend his master. He challenges Socrates to say what…Aug 28Aug 28
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First Philosophers11.2 Gorgias on the Art of Public SpeakingWhen Polus starts to launch into a speech, Socrates brushes him aside. He wants a conversation, not a speech. He addresses Gorgias…Aug 26Aug 26
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 11.1 A Declaration of WarPlato’s dialogue Gorgias begins in medias res. Socrates arrives late to a public lecture given by the famous sophist Gorgias. His disciple…Aug 26Aug 26
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 10.6. Opposition to the Socratic MovementAgainst the Socratics were arrayed three notable figures: Anytus the politician, a leader of the restored democracy; Isocrates the teacher…Aug 21Aug 21
Daniel W. Graham, PhDinThe First PhilosophersPlato 10.5. Pushback: The SophistAbout the same time that Isocrates published his pamphlet Against the Sophists, another pamphlet appeared — also an advertisement for an…Aug 19Aug 19