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Sartre vs. Plato and Kant, 2002.
This paper discusses what Sartre might say to Plato and Kant and then what would Plato and Kant respond to Sartre, explaining how their philosophies are both different and similar.
825 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
The paper presents an imaginary dialogue among the philosophers Sartre, Kant and Plato. Neither Kant nor Plato would agree with Sartre. On the other hand, Sartre would not have agreed with them. Three different philosophers with different points of view concerning mankind and what is best for them is clearly presented.
From the Paper
"This is where Sartre would answered, ?There is no God to have a conception of it. Man simply is. Not that he is simply what he conceives himself to be, but he is what he wills and as he conceives himself after already existing.? Sartre would have discussed the principles behind existentialism. He would have retorted about the subjectivity of mankind. "
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Plato?s "Parmenides", 2005.
This paper analyzes Plato's "Parmenides", one of Plato's most important dialogues, which focuses on the critique of the theory of Forms.
1,695 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Plato's theory of Forms, as presented in "Parmenides", is founded on the assumption that a higher, spiritual realm of Forms, or Ideas, exists beyond the world of physical things. The author points out that Plato was influence by pre-Socratic thinkers such as Pythagoras, who believed that all things are in number and that the universe is created and ruled by certain numerical principles, Parmenides, who built his philosophical structure around the concept of One, and Heraclitus, who perceived the world as a perpetual transformation of things into their opposites. The paper relates that Plato's "Parmenide"s has influenced many of the thinkers of the Western World such as Plotinus, Proclus, Dionysius the Areopagite, Nicholas Cusanus and GWF Hegel.
From the Paper
"Although in the "Phaedo" dialogue, Socrates seems to describe the theory of Forms as a very familiar concept that he has applied for a long time without any difficulties, "Parmenides", which is a dialogue of the second period, contains a set of criticisms of this theory. Therefore, scholars have asked themselves whether Plato had two distinct philosophies, an earlier and a later, or whether the main objective that Plato was trying to achieve by writing the first dialogues was to conserve the memory of Socrates, by presenting his ideas, although from a Platonic perspective, while the later dialogues contain Plato's own distinctive ideas."
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Plato's "Allegory of the Cave", 2004.
Analysis of the significance of enlightenment in Plato's "Allegory of the Cave".
9,750 words (approx. 39.0 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 198.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the meaning of Plato's "Allegory of the Cave", explaining how it represents a pilgrimage of the human mind from ignorance to enlightenment. The paper begins with a biography of Plato's life and a discussion of some of the scholarly differences regarding the type of man Plato actually was. Next, the paper focuses on Plato's concepts of truth, reality, and knowledge as represented in "The Cave" and summarizes its dialogue. Additionally, the influence of Socrates's friendship with Plato and of his death on Plato's writing of "The Cave" is discussed in this paper.
Abstract
Introduction
The Allegory of the Cave - an Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Republic is written by the Greek philosopher Plato in 500 BC. It is said that Plato?s real name was Aristocles and that Plato was a nickname. Plato was the youngest son of Ariston and Perictione and came from a wealthy family who had lived in Athens for many many generations. Plato?s real father died when he was very young and he grew up in his step-father Pyrilampes house. History shows that Plato studied under Cratylus who was a student of Heracleitus. The most interesting and most talked about relationship of Plato is that with Socrates with whom he became friends while very young. Plato got to know Socrates through his Uncle Charmides who himself was a close friend of Socrates."
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Plato's Just City, 2008.
This paper looks at 'The Republic' by Plato and discusses Kallipolis, Plato's just city.
1,680 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer studies 'The Republic' and notes that Plato discusses his belief that there were two kinds of justice: political justice - justice belonging to a group of people operating as a city or state, and individual justice - justice belonging to a particular man. The writer discusses that Plato's strategy in 'The Republic' is to first explain the primary concept of political justice and then to draw an analogous theory of individual justice. The writer concludes that Plato maintains that the just individual goes hand in hand with the just society and if one is convinced that the just society is presented by Plato's Kallipolis, that is how one should live one's just life.
From the Paper
"Every state will require a class of warriors whom Plato calls the guardians. They have a military function. The auxiliaries are responsible for defending the city from invaders, and for keeping the peace at home. They ensure that the producers obey, and enforce the rules of the philosopher-kings. It is essential that guardians develop the right balance between softness and hardiness because they must not be bullies, nor can they be weak and ineffective.
"This leads us to how to properly educate a guardian. Plato states that nature is not sufficient to produce guardians. Nature must be amplified with education."
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Plato's Theory of the Forms, 2007.
A description and analysis of the coherency of Plato's theory of the forms.
1,546 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Plato's theory of the forms and the reasons why Plato uses this metaphysical argument to justify how a state should be ruled and by whom. The theory is taken to its most logical endpoint a number of times to test its strength. Plato's technocratic viewpoint is mentioned along with the reasons why he held such views. Numerous criticisms are used and examined, which originate from Aristotle, Plato's pupil, and from Plato himself, with his later works also being touched upon.
From the Paper
"The basis of Plato's theory of the forms is that he "distiguishes between the experienced world that most of us think of as reality" and the "real world of the forms accesible only to philosophers" . The world that we ordinarily experience with our sences is just a "superficial reflection", or shadow of the real world of the forms, that remain invisible to all but the greatest philosophers. Plato explores not only objects such as a chair or a triangle, but also looks at such things as goodness and beauty. For example, Plato argues that beauty must be something quite different from the image of beautiful things."
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Plato?s Laws, 2006.
An analysis of Plato's Laws as interpreted by Leo Strauss in "The Argument and the Action of Plato's Laws".
3,391 words (approx. 13.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 96.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a summary and analysis of Leo Strauss's interpretation of Plato's Laws, explaining that both Strauss and Plato introduce the reader to their ideas of perfection, which is composed of a society governed by divine laws, enforced by virtuous individuals, and filled with the promise of virtue of the soul.
From the Paper
"We may begin by asking ourselves; what is law? Certainly, this is a central question posed by Plato himself in his Laws, which Leo Strauss explores further in The Argument and the Action of Plato's Laws. It is clear that the entire reason for individuals living together in a city and establishing laws is to improve the lives of every citizen and the opportunity for happiness. Furthermore, it is apparent that man is not complete without having laws to govern him. If he chooses not to obey the laws set forth by society, he will end up as a savage or possibly cause his own demise. Strauss undertakes a mission of study to translate Plato's Laws; a work described as Plato's disillusionment with the idea of Perfection. He provides a critical view into a theory of political education within a democracy that is more a disillusion with politics than a discourse on the idea of achieving a perfect society. However, it is clear that a political education as described in this work should instill individuals with a means to self-discovery in order to find happiness of the body and soul."
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Plato and Imperialism, 2007.
A discussion of how Plato may have viewed the events of World War II based on his writings.
5,907 words (approx. 23.6 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 141.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the events of World War II in light of Plato's philosophical and ethical works. In particular, the author considers the incidence of imperialism during the conflict and how Plato might have viewed this. The paper first explores Plato's philosophical outlook and that of other philosophers who influenced him and then highlights and analyzes Plato's works "The Republic" and "The Allegory of the Cave." The philosophies of different scholars from different time periods are also analyzed in terms of Plato's outlooks. Additionally, the paper examines Plato's theory of forms and shows its link with Socrates. The paper concludes with an overview of three modern philosophers which include Emanuel Wallerstein, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Eli Wiesel.
From the Paper
"Plato deals with ethics in many of his writings. In particular, his informative dialogues about 'The Republic' and 'The Allegory of the Cave' deal with ethics in a rather abstract sense. Both of these writings will be mentioned here, and used to explain how Plato sees human ethics and behaviors. However, much of what Plato worked with and where his philosophy came from involved three other philosophers - Pythagorus, Heraclitus, and Parmenides. These three individuals will be addressed here, and after they have been discussed Plato's philosophy will be addressed in order to show how the work that they did was taken up by Plato and used in the philosophy that he discussed."
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Introduction to Plato's "Apology", 2004.
A look at the main themes in the introduction to Plato's "Apology".
975 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper expounds on the main themes in the introduction to Plato's "Apology". The paper looks at Plato's discussion of the irony Socrates used in his defense arguments at his trial, at Plato's discussion of Socrates's use of the Socratic method of teaching at his trial, and at Plato's discussion of Socrates's strategy of questioning the fundamental validity of his trial itself, rather than putting on a vigorous defense of his actions.
From the Paper
"The main themes of Plato's Apology are the great irony of many of Socrates' claims, his use of the Socratic method of teaching, and his surprising strategy of questioning the fundamental validity of his trial itself, rather than putting on a vigorous and elegant defense of his actions as was expected by both his supporters and detractors, and likely by the people of the jury. Plato's Apology is a detailed account of the 399 BC trial of the great philosopher Socrates, in which Socrates was on trial for his life after being accused by Meletus, an ambitious young Athenian, and others of the upper class of being "a doer of evil, and corrupter of the youth, and he does not believe in the gods of the state, and has other new divinities of his own" (Plato, Apology). Ultimately, Socrates? defense led to his death, by his own hand, and the silencing of one of the world?s greatest intellectuals, making Socrates a martyr to the cause of intellectual freedom."
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Plato?s "The Republic", 2002.
An analysis of Plato?s "The Republic" and ideal society.
1,728 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Plato?s "The Republic" and shows how the ideas of Plato and his peers center on the social conditions of an ideal republic, which leads each person to the perfect possible life. It shows how Plato differentiates between three classes of people by their ability to grasp the truth of the forms and their understanding that each class contributing to society by fulfilling its proper function. Plato believed that wisdom, courage, moderation and justice could easily combine together to form the ideal society. The paper concludes with how Plato does not ask his readers to accept his views and how this perhaps makes his argument stronger as he simply asks the readers to question and challenge his theories.
From the Paper
"Socrates then explained his theory in a different way, shifting his focus from the individual to the city. According to Socrates, people merged in cities so that each person could perform the task best suited to their individual nature. He described the various classes of people in a city, from the peasant to the highest ruler. He asked the group: "Do you not think, that one who is to be guardian-like needs something more besides a spirited temper, and that is to be in his nature a lover of wisdom?" He wondered how potential rulers could be trained and educated with these traits."
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Plato's Conception of Love, 2002.
Analyzes Plato's conception of love and whether it allows for a love characterized by respect for individual differences by examining four different writings.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This four-page essay examines and analyzes Plato's Symposium, Nussbaum's essay, The Speech of Alcibiades: A Reading of the Symposium"; and Vlastos'essay, "The Individual as the Object of Love in Plato," in terms of whether Plato's conception of love allows for the love between individuals, a love that is characterized by respect for individual idiosyncrasies and autonomy.
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Plato and Aristotle, 2005.
This paper compares political theories in Plato's "The Republic" and Aristotle's "Politics".
4,320 words (approx. 17.3 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 114.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, although Plato and Aristotle's views on society and its role were fairly distinct, they had an identical purpose, to create a dignified living for communities. The author points out that concepts of Aristotle are different from those of Plato because Aristotle is an empiricist - he appreciates the relevance of immediate examination to find out the truth; whereas, Plato feels that simple logical conclusion can confirm the ultimate authenticity. The paper relates that, employing Socrates as an illusory narrator, Plato regards the character and the importance of justice as they are observed in the composition of society in general and in the character of an individual human being. Aristotle, disciple of Plato, broadened the concept of virtue by reasoning that righteous behavior should take up some midway between extreme conduct and conduct that lacks.
From the Paper
"Concurrently, forgiveness is usually considered as a significant virtue - a society in which there is complete lack of forgiveness will be a society that is oppressive, there is a dearth of freedom and would be devoid of the three fundamental ethics of compassion. That is strange; nevertheless, since forgiveness basically needs that justice not be performed. It has to be understood at this point that forgiveness is not an issue of showing sympathy or behaving well, even though these virtues might result in the likelihood of expressing increased forgiveness. Forgiveness even is not equal to empathy or compassion. The thing forgiveness involves is that certain things less than justice is one. In situations where a criminal who has been convicted begs for forgiveness, in that case he is requesting that a lenient penalty be given compared to what is slated for. While a Christian proscribes before God for forgiveness, she is requesting Him for a lesser penalty than He has in store for her."
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Plato and the Forms, 2005.
A brief look at philosophical theory of forms, according to philosopher, Plato.
770 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 15 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
Ancient Greek philosopher, Plato, presented his theory of forms, a philosophical standpoint that views reality as divided into truth and illusion. The paper answers two questions: What is the world of forms in Plato's philosophy and why does Plato think the world of forms must exist?
From the Paper
"One of the most accessible descriptions of the relationship between the forms and the particulars is in the famous cave allegory. In this allegory all humanity lives in a cave with the Forms or ideal reality outside the cave. Living in the cave humanity is aware only of the shadows of the Forms as they continually reflect themselves on the cave walls. We therefore never see the true nature of ourselves or reality but only reflections or fleeting glimpses of the truth."
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Plato's Theory Of Forms, 1972.
This paper discusses Plato's Theory of Forms through Thrasymachus' view of the main problem of the "Republic" and Plato's arguments for the immortality of the soul.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 1 source, $ 95.95
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From the Paper
"The theory of Forms embodies the foundation of Plato's philosophy, the perspective of how he views the world. The basis of the theory is the division of all of what we describe as reality and those things which relate to this reality.
"Forms" is the quality of things that makes it what it is, its essence. They are the ideals, which are themselves the pith of all knowledge. Forms delineate the sensible world from that realm of unseen reality. As the Form (essence) of music is beauty, or whatever, then one who is cognizant of its essence would be capable of appreciating all kinds of music for its essence.
Perhaps the most explicit example is the Divided Line Analogy. Here Plato describes the process--the dialectic he uses in the classification of reality. The highest level of ... "
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The Poetics of Plato and T. S. Eliot, 2008.
A comparative analysis of the poetic views of Plato and T. S. Eliot.
2,566 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
Through an examination of Plato's "Republic" and ""Ion" and T.S. Eliot's "Tradition and the Individual Talent" this paper attempts to compare Plato's and Eliot's views on poetry. The paper discusses how Plato saw poetry as a claim to truth that he rejected as a subjective interpretation of the world at best, falling further away from any knowledge claims with every successive interpretation. The paper then compares Plato's view with T.S. Eliot's view, which places poetry within a tradition that is informed by the past as well as the cultural present, a collectivity that mitigates the poet's subjective experiences and functions as an objective correlation between art and the world.
From the Paper
"In the Ionic dialog, Plato examines the interpretation of poetry by the rhapsodes, and attempts to establish the grounds by which this interpretation is enacted. Through the character of Socrates, Plato interrogates Ion, a professional rhapsode; one who recites poetry for an audience and also interprets passages for them. Ion's ethos is established through his achievements, recently winning first prize at the festival of Asclepius at Epidaurus as well as being "crowned with a golden crown by the Homeridae" for how well he "embellished Homer". Ion proceeds to admit that, while he is an expert on Homer, he knows very little about other poets. As the poets often deal with much the same subject matter, Socrates exposes a problem with Ion's interpretation of these texts; he is not an expert qualified to critically assess the content of the works, only Homer's usage."
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Philosophy: Plato's Republic, 2006.
A discussion regarding the theme of justice and the well ordered soul in Plato's Republic.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 1 source, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This philosophical study examines the theme of justice and the well ordered soul in Plato's Republic. By examining the basis of Truth in Plato's Republic, the paper realizes the foundation for justice within this city. Also, the objective of truth should relate to the basis of the soul, which should be guided by the principles of justice within Plato's ideology. In this manner, Plato's Republic identifies the basis of justice upon the foundation of virtue and truth within the well ordered soul in this philosopher's ideal city state.
From the Paper
"In this paper, the basis of justice within The Republic relies on the various facets of knowledge and the foundation for universal truths in governing. Plato and Socrates often agree that right and wrong often changes through the passage of time, but through a reference to justice, the Republic gives virtue and truth as the basis for honoring order. Through this construct of justice and order, the soul becomes the foundation for realizing the greater good of society. The well ordered soul is the key to realizing a universal truth that is unchanging and reliable. "
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