Gorgias

Gorgias by Plato is a philosophical dialogue that explores the nature of rhetoric, justice, and the good life. The dialogue is set in the house of Callicles, where Socrates engages in a discussion with the famous rhetorician Gorgias, his student Polus, and Callicles himself. Socrates questions Gorgias about the true nature of rhetoric, arguing that it is merely a form of persuasion that lacks a genuine concern for truth. The conversation delves into the ethics of rhetoric, contrasting it with the pursuit of philosophy. Socrates further debates with Polus and Callicles about the relationship between power, pleasure, and virtue, ultimately advocating for a life of justice and self-discipline over one driven by hedonistic desires. Through this dialogue, Plato examines the moral and philosophical underpinnings of human actions and the societal implications of rhetoric. Plato (c. 427-347 BCE) was a Greek philosopher, student of Socrates, and teacher of Aristotle. He founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world. Plato’s dialogues cover a wide range of philosophical topics, including ethics, politics, metaphysics, and epistemology. His works have had a profound influence on Western thought and continue to be studied for their insights into human nature and society. Benjamin Jowett (1817-1893) was an English classical scholar, theologian, and translator. He is best known for his translations of Plato’s works, making them accessible to English-speaking audiences. Jowett’s translations are celebrated for their clarity and fidelity to the original texts. —- ISBN: 9798329791617