Plato of Athens
The most influential philosopher in the Western tradition, Plato founded the Academy and wrote dialogues in which Socrates debates questions of justice, beauty, knowledge, and the soul. The Republic, his vision of an ideal state, has been argued over for two millennia. His theory of Forms posits a realm of perfect, eternal ideas behind the imperfect material world.
Works
- The RepublicDialogue on justice and ideal society through Socratic method and myth
- SymposiumDialogue exploring love and desire through speeches at a dinner party
- PhaedoDialogue on immortality of the soul and death of Socrates
- MenoDialogue questioning knowledge and virtue through interrogation
- ApologySocrates' defense against charges of impiety and corrupting youth