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In this new interpretation of Plato's Phaedo, Paul Stern considers the dialogue as an invaluable source for understanding the distinctive character of Socratic rationalism. First, he demonstrates, contrary to the charge of such thinkers as Nietzsche, Heidegger, and Rorty, that Socrates' rationalism does not rest on the dogmatic presumption of the rationality of nature. Second, he shows that the distinctively Socratic mode of philosophizing is formulated precisely with a view to vindicating the philosophic life in the face of these uncertainties. And finally, he argues that this vindication results in a mode of inquiry that finds its ground in a clear understanding of the problematical but enduring human situation. Stern concludes that Socratic rationalism, aware as it is of the limits of reason, still provides a nondogmatic and nonarbitrary basis for human understanding.
"This is a fine piece of work. The overall organization is clear and sensible and this is matched by a scrupulous attention to detail. Stern is extremely well versed in the secondary literature and quite sensitive to all of the differences in interpretation. Above all, Stern knows how to read Plato. The book reads like a thriller—at least for someone who cares about the possibility of philosophy and sees that Stern is dealing with this central issue." — Christopher Colmo, Rosary College
"Stern has written a careful, exceptionally clear, eminently readable interpretation of Plato's Phaedo. He disputes the accepted philosophic reading of the dialogue as an 'early' statement of Plato's theory of ideas quite convincingly." — Catherine Zuckert, Carleton College
Acknowledgments
I. Introduction
The Issues of the Phaedo
Mode of Interpretation
II. The Defense of Socrates
Overview
The Opening Scene
Socrates' Poetic Defense of Philosophy
Philosophy as Preparation for Death
III. The Proofs of Immortality
Overview
Opposites
Recollection
Likeness
Objections
IV. Socrates' 'Second Sailing
Overview
Misology
Socrates' Reply to Simmias: Soul as Harmonia
Socrates' Reply to Cebes: The Second Sailing
Socrates' varying views of nature
The 'second sailing'
V. Socrates' Final Teaching
Overview
Immortality and Imperishability
The True Earth
The Death of Socrates
VI. Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index