Plato is one of the most influential and profound thinkers in Western philosophy. We look at his understanding of truth and perception, the analogy of the Cave, his defence of Socrates, scepticism and idealism, his unforgettable analysis of love and friendship, his influence on Aristotle and the Neoplatonists, and his astonishing legacy.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face

SUGGESTED READING

• Russell, Bertrand, A History of Western Philosophy
• Plato, The Life and Death of Socrates
• Taylor, C., Hare RM., and Barnes J., Greek Philosophers: Socrates, Plato, Aristotle

COURSE OUTLINE

• Who is Plato?
• Plato and Socrates
• The Analogy of the Cave
• Scepticism and Idealism
• Love and friendship

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Gain an understanding of the nature of perception (and knowledge) 2. Understand scepticism and Idealism
2. Understand the Platonic explanation of love (and friendship)