Plato

Guide Note

Athenian philosopher, mathematician, writer, and astronomer Plato, along with his mentor Socrates and student Aristotle, laid the foundations for modern Western philosophy. Plato's works and thoughts continue to influence society more than 2,000 years after his death.

Fast Facts

1. Real Name: Aristocles
2. Nickname: Platon, meaning "broad"
3. Lifespan: 427 - 347 BC
4. Parents were reportedly wealthy aristocrats
5. Rejected his noble upbringing to devote himself to higher education
6. Never married
7. No known children
8. Founded the first known University, the Academy school in Athens
9. Believed that the pursuit of absolute truth was unattainable

Major Works

Nearly everything Plato wrote was composed in the form of a dialog, and therefore his writings have been grouped by subject and era into over two dozen collections known as Plato's "Dialogues."

Plato's most enduring text is Politeia, better known as The Republic. In The Republic, Plato expounds upon the virtues of justice, wisdom, courage and moderation for both individuals and society. He details a specific plan for his ideal state, in which only philosophers would be eligible to rule.

Contributions

Plato was one of the first to theorize that the Earth was spherical, but incorrectly placed it at the center of the Universe

Plato believed that all substances on earth were composed of the four elements: Air, earth, fire, and water.

Plato's dialogues have been used to teach each a range of subjects, including philosophy, logic, rhetoric and mathematics

"People are like dirt. They can either nourish you and help you grow as a person or they can stunt your growth and make you wilt and die."

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."

"Love is a serious mental disease."

"Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something."¹