The Life and Ethics of Plato

The Life and Ethics of Plato

Carolyn Tilley

Ethics, PHIL 2063

LeTourneau University

October 21, 2012

I. The Life

Plato was a Greek philosopher that was born in Athens in 427 BCE; born to wealthy and influential Athenian parents. Little can be found on Plato’s early years and education, but some say he was a bright boy who seemed to excel in school. His father did everything possible to make sure that his son had a good education. At a young age, Plato began his philosophical studies under Socrates. Under the guidance of his mentor, Plato developed philosophical dialogues and was the founder of the first Academy in Athens; that later became a higher learning institute known in the Western world.

Socrates had a major influence on Plato’s life; in many of his writings, he referred to Socrates dialogues. In Plato’s, book Apology of Socrates he tells how Socrates had to defend himself in a trial that eventually led to his death. However, Plato was only transcribing the words of Socrates, but he also added his own thoughts, which he learned from Socrates.

Plato taught students enrolled in the Academy the Socratic style; he tried to incorporate the styles way of thinking for mathematical learning to achieve the philosophical truth. Plato tried to convey the teaching of Socrates’ styles to the students to present accurate reports of information.

Some influential philosophers influenced Plato; his mentor Socrates was one of many major influences in his life. Plato studies with Socrates made him second in the trio, which included Aristotle third, and with whom Socrates was first.

II. The Ethics

Plato believed that the heaven