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Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo written by legendary Greek philosopher Plato is widely considered by many to be among his greatest of approximately thirty five dialogues. These great classics will surely attract a whole new generation of readers of Plato's work. For many, Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo is required reading for various courses and curriculums. And for others who simply enjoy reading timeless pieces of classic literature, the combination of these four gems by Plato is highly recommended. Published by Classic Books America and beautifully produced, Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo would make an ideal gift and it should be a part of everyone's personal library. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Collection
This magnificent compilation has four Plato writings:"Euthyphro," "Apology," "Crito," and "Phaedo." Though apparently early works and not as complex or philosophically influential as later ones, they are immensely important in portraying Socrates' trial and death. They are our clearest picture of the historical Socrates and would be invaluable for this alone. Indeed, I have read hundreds - perhaps thousands - of books, and this is one of my ten or so favorites, mostly because of how moving the depiction of the great man's last days is. The story of Socrates' Apology and last moments is part of world literature's very fabric, an immortal part of Western cultural heritage. Anyone who wants to learn about Socrates should start here. However, the works have great value even aside from this; a few have indeed questioned their historical veracity. This does not affect their philosophical, literary, and political worth, which is of the highest, making the book doubly essential.

"Euthyphro" is the least important work philosophically and probably not meant as historical, but it is still worthwhile. It examines the important "What is piety?" question and, like many Platonic dialogues, does not have anything like a definite conclusion. Some find this aspect frustrating, and it is certainly beguiling, but those who have experience with it come to love it. Like Socrates, Plato is after all too intelligent to give hard and fast answers; in all likelihood, he knows there are not any. What he does is far more important - lead us to think for ourselves and come to our own conclusions if we can. "Euthyphro" is a good, if relatively minor, example. It also introduces what philosophers call the Euthyphro Problem; here it is "Are good things good because they are loved by the gods, or are they loved by the gods because they are good?," but it has been restated in innumerable forms. This is in some ways an unrepresentative dialogue and thus an unfortunate one to begin the book, because it seems to prove the stereotype that philosophy obsesses over inane, probably unanswerable questions of no practical use. The Euthyphro Problem seems truly asinine as given - or, in our post-postmodern world, simply irrelevant. However, we can begin to see its importance when we replace "good" and "loved by the gods" with whatever seems most pressing. Such is after all the kind of thing Plato wanted; we are not supposed to read in narrow literal terms but use him as a starting point for our path to wisdom. This is an instructive example of how Plato has been immensely influential far beyond his apparent significance.

"Apology" is Plato's least philosophical and most unrepresentative work but arguably his most important and is among many readers' favorites, including mine. The book's title is misleading in that this is prose rather than dialogue; it purports to be Socrates' self-defense at his trial. It is historically priceless if so, as it gives his last public statements and some background about his life and the lead up to the trial. Even if not, it is of immense worth as a passionate, sound defense of individualism and free speech; its timeless evocation of these all-important concepts is forever associated with Socrates and the main reason he has been immortalized. The work also piercingly examines the often vast law/conscience gap and is thus an early higher law document. Finally, it is a sort of mini-dialogue in itself touching on and in several ways tying up classic Socrates/Plato themes like the nature of piety and goodness, responsibility toward the gods and the state, interpersonal relations, and life vs. death issues. It sums up Socrates and perhaps Plato better than any other work.

"Crito" is a possibly partly historical account of the title character visiting Socrates in jail to inform him that he is able to escape via bribe; Socrates famously says that he accepts his sentence and argues down contrary pleas. This gives incredible potential insight into Socrates, in many ways telling us more about his character and thought than a full biography ever could. Again, though, it transcends this philosophically and otherwise and is particularly relevant politically. It also examines the law/conscience gap and gives further background on Socrates but is notable above all as a very early example of the social contract theory of government. This is an astonishing example of how advanced Plato was, as the theory is generally considered to have been founded by Thomas Hobbes nearly a millennium later. Even more amazingly, it is put forth more clearly and persuasively here than perhaps anywhere else, making the dialogue essential for anyone interested in political theory.

"Phaedo" ostensibly details Socrates' last moments, including his last look at his wife and child, his last dialogue, his last words to friends, and his actual death. A large part of Socrates' image comes from this, and its potential historical value is inconceivable, though its historicity can easily be doubted since the work itself strongly suggests that Plato was not there. Even so, it is likely accurate in regard to the things that really matter and certainly a fine account of how it very well could have been. It is extremely moving; shot through with pathos, it is one of the most affecting things I have ever read. One can surely not read it without being overcome by emotion; I can hardly even think of it without misty eyes. Anyone who respects and admires this central Western civilization figure will be profoundly touched; his famous last words seem comic out of context but are very much otherwise here, telling us much about Socrates and moving us yet further. This would be one of the greatest works of all-time if it had no other aspect, but it is also a fine dialogue appropriately dealing mostly with death. Plato examines perennial questions like the soul's immortality and metempsychosis very thoroughly and thought-provokingly, and the conclusion - unsurprisingly, given the circumstances - has uncharacteristic certainty. It may not convince our cynical, empiricist, science-loving, twentieth century-surviving age, but the argument is certainly well-made and in many ways admirable. The dialogue touches on other important subjects also and is generally seen as the culmination of Plato's early, Socrates-centered thought.

It is important to realize that these four works were not originally published together, but the trial and death connection means they are often collected. There are many such editions, but this is the least expensive and probably the most widely available, making it ideal for most; it also has extra value in that many versions lack "Euthyphro."

The ever-important translation issue must also be kept in mind. It goes without saying that anyone who cares about intellectual issues, especially applied ones, must know Plato, as should anyone who wants to be even basically well-read. However, this is far easier said than done for most; he is so different from what now passes for literature, to say nothing of pop culture, that he is virtually inaccessible to general readers. Yet the importance of persevering cannot be overemphasized; the payoff is well worth the effort. As nearly always in such cases, reading him becomes far easier after the initial difficulty; no attentive reader will ever think Plato easy reading, but he is utterly absorbing once we get used to his style. He has a near-poetic beauty that all agree has never even been remotely approached in philosophy, and such mesmerizing prose is rare in any genre. His dialogues are an incredible form at once intellectually and aesthetically pleasing - an inspired combination that has perhaps never been bettered; many have appropriated it, but none have matched it. All this means that picking the right translation is probably more important with Plato than any other writer. For the average reader, the more recent, the better is generally true, though older translations like W. H. D. Rouse's and Benjamin Jowett's are still very accessible. The important thing is to read Plato in some form, and those who happen on a translation that does not work for them should keep trying until their mind opens in a truly new way - and once done, it will never close again.

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Product Description

Esteemed for providing the best available translations, Philosophic Classics: From Plato to Derrida, features complete works or complete sections of the most important works by the major thinkers, as well as shorter samples from transitional thinkers.

First published in 1961, Forrest E. Baird's revision of Philosophic Classics, Pearson Education's long-standing anthology (available in split volumes), continues the tradition of providing generations of students with high quality course material. Using the complete works, or where appropriate, complete sections of works, this anthology allows philosophers to speak directly to students.  

For more information on the period volumes that are available please see below:

Philosophicl Classics, Volume I: Ancient Philosophy, 6/E  ISBN-10: 0205783856

Philosophicl Classics, Volume II: Medieval and Renaissance Philosophy, 6/E  ISBN-10: 0205783902

Philosophic Classics, Volume III: Modern Philosophy, 6/E  ISBN-10: 0205783899

Customer Reviews (4)

Philosophic Classics
There is a huge range of authors in this book, and it includes most of the main ideas from each original passage. It can be sort of hard to follow at times, however, as it leaves out giant parts of arguments, especially in The Republic. This really breaks down the flow of the piece and renders it much more confusing than the original book.

Philosophic Classics from Plato to Derida
Another master piece for your books shelf. This work is more in depth and delves into snippets of the various authors' works. We are assigned this book in a class for MTh. An excellent resource, a book shelf keeper.

Who thought philosophy would be fun??
Great study of major philosophies that have impacted our western culture.Very enjoyable and easy reading, yet stimulating and intellectual...Loved the book!

Excellent Introduction to Philosophy Text
If you teach Introduction to Philosophy using a historical approach, this is the text I recommend. I used "The Philosophic Classics 2nd edition, From Plato to Nietzsche" for my classes and was looking for a textwith the same basic works with some more contemporary materials. I find theupdated 3rd edition, "From Plato to Derrida" the perfectsolution. Instead of having to look through more textbooks for the rightstuff, this is it. ... Read more

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English translation with introduction and glossary. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The Battle of Gods and Giants
For many, this dialogue represents the culmination of Platonic thought. Theatetus and the Eleatic stranger announce a program of determination of the function and essence of the Sophist. They proceed by way of dialectical bifurcation; in a way this text is about the process of bifurcation itself. We are left with little to think about the Sophist in positive terms. Rather, we are left with the essence of sophistry as a kind of semblance-the sophist creates the impression of true knowledge. However, at the heart of this text is a metaphysical questioning of the meaning of being itself: "Then clarify this for us, since we're confused by it. What do you want to signify when you say being? Obviously you've known for a long time. We thought we did, but now we're confused about it." This brief problematic would of course find itself as the opening quotation of Heidegger's Being and Time. The Sophist remains one of the most crucial and mysterious of all metaphysical texts.

Plato's The Sophist
Recommended for anyone who wants to study philosophy. The introduction is just wonderful.It facilitates the undertanding of the text.It is worth buying,

Good translation
This is a very good translation for people reading the Sophist for the first time.The language is accessible (as much as it can be considering that this is one of the most difficult dialogues).Other translations of the dialogue are either written in archaic English or have other purposes.Benardete's is excellent, but it is for studying, not reading.

The introduction also gives a very nice outline of the dialogue. ... Read more

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These four dialogues cover time surrounding the execution of Socrates. As he was charged, tried, and condemned to death, the four dialogues stand as final testaments to his credo of virtue. These are texts that have shaped thousands of years of thought on the meaning of life and personal conduct. ... Read more

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Interprets and comments upon the major works of the Greek philosopher. ... Read more

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This 1961 edition of Plato's Meno was originally edited by R. S. Bluck, Senior Lecturer in Greek at the University of Manchester. Its value lies in the incredibly extensive preliminary chapters provided by Bluck, designed to truly enhance the reader's engagement with this ancient text. In almost 150 pages of introductory chapters, Bluck reviews the argument of the Meno, its relation to wider philosophical and dialogues (written both before and after Plato), and summarises Plato's use of the hypothetical method in the Meno, the Phaedo and the Republic. He also provides a detailed synopsis of Plato's Meno before presenting the full Greek text, accompanied by a wide-ranging and incredibly accessible commentary. Finally, Bluck presents the reader with indices in both English and Greek, ensuring that this volume remains an endlessly rewarding reference and research work. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A rich text, translated here with an ear for both clarity and accuracy, and with excellent and helpful notes
The Meno is one of the best dialogues to read for an introduction to some of Plato's characteristic themes.It is generally regarded as an early "Socratic" work, and really ought to be read along with the "trial and death of Socrates" cycle (Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Phaedo), since it is here that we are introduced to one of Socrates' accusers (Anytus).The discussion with both Meno (who admires Socrates for being somewhat like the sophist Gorgias, with whom he was friends in Thessaly) and Anytus (who despises Socrates because he groups him with the sophists) helps to give some idea of the way he was perceived by some of his fellow Athenians, and helps us understand why he may have later been put on trial (for a fuller understanding, of course, you have to know about what changes were taking place in the political climate of Athens as a result of the recent war).We also get to see here the character of Socrates, and get excellent examples of the "Socratic method" of asking questions that encourage his interlocutor to take a stand, and then to examine that stance to see whether it is stable, and then insisting that the stance be revised when it is shown to harbor inconsistencies.What is fascinating, too, is how at the same time as Socrates leads Meno to commit himself in words (logos), he also tacitly leads Meno to reveal himself in "deed" (ergon), to be unstable in his character and easily swayed by the persuasion of others and unwilling to push himself beyond his narrow preconception that the best way to be is to become wealthy and powerful, and at the same time to live up to general expectations based on class.

While this is clearly a "Socratic" work it also gives one of the clearest and most straightforward introductions to the "Platonic" doctrine of the "forms," that may at the same time help to challenge some of the cartoonish accounts of the theory.Socrates asks Meno to give him the "form" of virtue - and we often think that what he is asking for is a definition, but the dialogue itself suggests something different.He tells Meno that he should state the form of virtue after the model of how he expresses the form of "shape": it is "that which alone of all the things that are, which always happens to accompany color."Of course Meno finds that unsatisfactory as a definition, and presses Socrates to define it more clearly, which he does by giving something like a geometrical definition of shape (in terms of lines or limits) and a physical definition of color (as the perceptual effect of the "effluences" given off by things).But Socrates says that the kind of account he wants of virtue is more like the one he first gave of shape, rather than like these more technical definitions.He had first described shape as that which follows or accompanies color.It's worth noting that to define shape in terms of color is roughly how a painter defines shape: by painting colors that allow the shape to emerge and show itself.Perhaps the "form" of a thing is not so much like a technical definition and is more like the unifying quality that makes of many elements a whole and lets it be seen for what it is.(The notes to the book clarify that the Greek word "eidos" that is translated as "form" has a colloquial meaning that suggest something like "the look" of the thing - whatever it is about the thing that allows us to recognize it as what it is.)The point above all in this dialogue, which is inconclusive if you think the aim was to find a "necessary and sufficient" set of conditions for virtue and its acquisition, is to lead Meno (and us) as readers to be able to see virtue itself, to paint a picture of virtuous activity that lets it appear.

The dialogue also introduces clearly famous Platonic themes such as the "doctrine of recollection," the idea that "virtue is knowledge," the theme of Socratic wisdom, and the importance of the "aporetic" moment.A high and memorable point of the dialogue is, of course, the discussion with Meno's slave boy, in which Socrates leads him towards a discovery of a special case of the Pythagorean theorem, as an illustration of the possibility of knowledge by recollection.One reason to use this edition of the Meno is because of the extremely helpful notes, and especially the clear diagrams they give in order to show what lines Socrates was likely to be referring to as he went through the discussion with the slave boy.Another reason to pick this one up is that the translation manages to balance the needs of clarity in English, with the importance of fidelity to the ancient Greek original.Following along in the notes makes it easy to tell how they translated the key terms, and how and why they made choices when there is some uncertainty about the original, but what's nice is that the notes don't get in the way and you can turn to them or not depending on your needs.Highly recommended reading and this is the translation I'd recommend.

geometry in the sand... plato's meno
If you have not yet studied Plato, Meno is a good, rather, excellent, place to start. It is a simple Platonic dialogue of Plato explaining geometry and ethical issues to Meno, while he draws them out with a stick in the sand to illustrate his point.

There isn't much to say about this book, except buy it if you are at all interested in philosophy and if you are not, then this is a good place to start because without philosophy, how do you think? At least, that's what Plato might say, certainly Aristotle might argue this... Seneca would... others certainly and i can only imagine Marcus Aurelius, the great Stoic philosopher.


sadi ranson ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (3)

The math of democracy
This book by George Szpiro is a book for math geeks, as well as those of us who have ever questioned justice and how the numbers of democracy really works. Written for general readership, this highly entertaining book (I'm not a math geek) starts off with the anti-democrat Plato, who after Socrates's condemnation of death by a solid majority in a court, despised such a system coming up with his ideal Republic to be ruled by a few guardians. Later, in the historical chapters, we find out just how important numbers are in democracy and government. Anybody who has ever decried election results will be fascinated in Szpiro's accessible explanations of the paradoxes and enigmas that occur in all methods of election, from electing a pope in Rome, to apportionment of seats in the Congress by our founding fathers to ensure justice for all, even the minority.

Reviewed by: Phil Semler

Outstanding Historical Perspective on Voting
This is a wonderful, historical look at voting systems.While voting might appear to be straightforward (we do it all the time), there are great difficulties in defining what the right winner is when there are more than two candidates.The standard "one with the most votes" (plurality) election is not particularly appealing since it is easy to split the opposition by adding candidates and having a candidate with very little support be the winner.This book traces understanding of these issues back to the Greeks and continues through the "dark ages", when clerics were particularly interested in how to elect Popes and abbots, through the Napoleonic period of Borda and Condorcet, up to the current era of impossibility theorems and computational complexity.The exposition is not mathematical (equations are exiled to chapter appendices) but it is analytical in the sense that concepts are clearly defined and the results are fully explained.Examples are interleaved to aid in understanding.

This book is highly readable and hits all the highlights.The exposition of the period from 1200-1450 was particularly interesting to me, since it is much less known than the relatively well-known French period.

If you have any interest in learning about why voting and apportionment are not straightforward, and want a readable, history-oriented book on approaches to these problems, I highly recommend this book.

A Fun Study of the Mathematics of Democracy
In the United States, we now and then debate the merits of the Electoral College, but few people in this country pay attention to how the 435 congressional seats are apportioned to the 50 states after each decennial census.George Szpiro takes up this topic and other election-related problems in "Numbers Rule."

Szpiro describes how democracies from ancient Greece to the twenty-first century have dealt with the issues involved in making representation and elections as just as humanly possible.He describes how methods used to choose between multiple candidates progressed from those used to elect abbesses in the Middle Ages to those used in France in the eighteenth century, and shows the odd effects that can result when a third candidate is inserted into a previously two-man race.

This book was, appropriately enough, released in a year ending in '0', given that 2010 is a census year--the task of congressional apportionment will begin again soon.Szpiro recounts the intense debates between advocates of different apportionment methods in the early years of the republic and recalls many of the conflicts in later decades between states over the final representative apportioned.The author describes many of the mathematical issues that result, including the Alabama, New State, and Population Paradoxes--he shows mathematically how a state can, incredibly, lose a representative when the size of the House of Representatives is increased by one.

One trail that Szpiro did not go down involves the effect of an increase in the size of the House on presidential elections.Many people over the years have called for an increase of the size of the House of Representatives to anywhere from 600 to 1000 seats--in very rare instances this would be enough to change the result of an extremely close presidential election.Had the House contained, say, 870 seats instead of the 435 that it actually contained for the 2000 election, Al Gore would have won even without carrying Florida.

Szpiro reports the opinions of mathematicians concerning whether multi-candidate elections and congressional apportionments can ever be made completely fair, and provides brief biographical sketches of many of the mathematicians who dealt with these problems.The author closes by discussing election problems encountered in recent decades in Switzerland, France, and Israel.

"Numbers Rule" is a great study of the mechanics needed to put democracy in place and shows that they are not foolproof--one is reminded of Winston Churchill's assertion that "Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time." ... Read more

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In this new edition, two of Plato’s most accessible dialogues explore the question of what exactly makes good people good. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Pleasantly surprised

When I saw that I had been assigned Plato I have to confess I worried if the book might be a bit too dry and heavy for my tastes. I was therefore pleasantly surprised at the accessible, readable and indeed rather enjoyable nature of Protagoras and Meno.

The two dialogues are concerned with the nature of being 'good'. A central theme is the question of whether virtue (or 'being good') is something that can be taught. In both dialogues the central figure is Socrates. He is engaged in debates with the two eponymous figures Protagoras and Meno.

Protagoras is the most famous sophist in Greece but Socrates is sceptical as to what a sophist can achieve. Protagoras believes that the job of a sophist is to teach people how to be good. Socrates then sets out to show that virtue cannot be taught. This dialogue ends rather unsatisfactorily. Socrates cuts short the debate as both speakers had become confused -- arguing the opposite of what they originally intended.

The thoughts developed by Socrates in Protagoras are rounded off in Meno. Here, Socrates concludes that virtue is not teachable. This is because so many great sophists are unable to teach their own sons how to be good. As virtue is not teachable, nor can it be a form of wisdom.

Instead, Socrates contends that virtue comes when people are "inspired" -- it is "a gift of god". Earlier on, Socrates had brilliantly demonstrated that knowledge can be innate by leading one of Meno's slaves through a geometric puzzle without teaching anything.

As an economics graduate, I particularly appreciated the sections of the dialogues where Socrates contended that people do not set out to do bad things. It is easy to see how this Benthamite argument influenced J. S. Mill.

All-in-all I found this a very interesting book. It is a remarkably breezy read for a text that was originally written in Greek around 2,400 years ago. Full credit must be given to the translation which helps make Plato an absolute pleasure to read.

Read It and Loved It
I read this while taking Plato, though it also came up in Aristotle. (For obvious reasons...)

I liked it, mostly because it was clear, where other translations use old-fashioned or out-of-date language to try and pretend Plato is more complex than he really is. Don't get me wrong, Plato is certainly interesting to read, as is this book, but sometimes people get caught up in the history and ignore the philosophy.

As a side note, I wanted to learn more about the translator, and found out he actually wrote about translating Greek, and why he chose what he did. You can check it out on his website, just do a Google search for Adam Beresford. He has various articles on there, but I've only read a few of them. (I was there for the translation stuff...)

protagoras for the short bus crowd
We can all understand the concept of translating a complicated work into one which is slightly more accessible to the general public. This latest incarnation, however, suggests the good people at penguin see the general public as being rather stupid. This version of Protagoras and Meno is so horribly oversimplified as to provide practically no joy of experience, no purpose and, certainly, no value to the reader. This savaged, diluted, shadowy reflection of P & M is, in fact, kind of an achievement in the growing realm of demographic-pandering, in that, each work possessed, prior to this edition, a tidy order of reason which has since been extricated from the pages. My advice to anyone interested in enjoying P & M is to find an older, used book. my advice to penguin is to stop doing this. no one wants to hear a Wagnerian opera adapted for the kazoo. See, virtue can be taught.: ) note: The rating should be 2 stars. The star rating pulldown menu is not showing up in my browser.

Excellent New Translation
Adam Beresford's wonderful new translation of these two Platonic dialogues from the middle period, Protagoras and Meno, struck me, because they captured better than any other translations I've ever read of any other dialogues, the campiness that is so essential to Plato's witty irony, and so often overlooked.I never realized how essential these asides were to his philosophy until I read Beresford's translation.Furthermore, the modern translation, colloquial and clear (and accurate!) makes difficult philosophical arguments - as for example, what makes a man good - easier to follow than translations past. Past translations have obfuscated some of these arguments and even at times rendered them unintelligible.Beresford's work clears up many of these problems.

A stellar translation
I am not a philosopher but who says only philosophers can read Plato's texts and come out with an understanding of what he is up to? Thanks to Adam Beresford's translation of the Protagoras and Meno, I can ask this question now. I've tried reading stilted translations of Plato's texts and they have felt like breaking rocks. I've wondered of those translations if they are in English at all. Reading Beresford's translation was a joy to my imagination and mind. I can now ask myself what being good is and find a way to engage this concept in my own life in a way that I couldn't when being good is translated in many texts as a virtue. In a way Beresford has taken philosophy back to where it belongs, to the butcher, farmer, storekeeper, beekeeper, taxi driver and to an African woman like me. I do not want to sound like his translation is only aimed at the common person. His translation is layered and is apt to be read both by experts in the academy and people like me. This is a new vision, a new way to translate Plato and to bring it back to where Socrates would recognize, to the common person. L.T.

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In the modern philosophical tradition, Plato's Socrates has been viewed as an alienating influence on Western thought and life. In this book, Mary Nichols addresses Kierkegaard's and Nietzsche's criticism of Socrates and recovers the place of friendship and community in Socratic philosophizing. Her rich analysis of both dramatic details and philosophic themes in Plato's Symposium, Phaedras, and Lysis shows how love finds its fulfillment in the reciprocal relation of friends. Nichols shows how friends experience another as their own and themselves as belonging to another. Their experience, she argues, both sheds light on the nature of philosophy and serves as a standard for a political life that does justice to human freedom and community. ... Read more

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This is the first edition of Plato's Republic to be based on examination of all the evidence. Many new readings have been introduced in the Greek text. A critical apparatus gives details for all relevant textual evidence. All scholars and students of Plato and ancient philosophy in general will welcome this valuable new resource. ... Read more

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Symposium written by legendary philosopher Plato is widely considered to be one of the top philosophical books of all time. This great classic will surely attract a whole new generation of readers. For many, Symposium is required reading for various courses and curriculums. And for others who simply enjoy reading timeless pieces of classic philosophical literature, this gem by Plato is highly recommended. Published by Classic Books America and beautifully produced, Symposium would make an ideal gift and it should be a part of everyone's personal library. ... Read more

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Plato (428/427 BC-348/347 BC), whose original name was Aristocles, was an ancient Greek philosopher, the second of the great trio of ancient Greeks - succeeding Socrates and preceding Aristotle - who between them laid the philosophical foundations of Western culture. Plato was also a mathematician, writer of philosophical dialogues, and founder of the Academy in Athens, the first institution of higher learning in the western world. Plato is widely believed to have been a student of Socrates and to have been deeply influenced by his teacher's unjust death. Plato's brilliance as a writer and thinker can be witnessed by reading his Socratic dialogues. Some of the dialogues, letters, and other works that are ascribed to him are considered spurious. Plato is thought to have lectured at the Academy, although the pedagogical function of his dialogues, if any, is not known with certainty. They have historically been used to teach philosophy, logic, rhetoric, mathematics, and other subjects about which he wrote. ... Read more

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Two major works in one convenient, low-priced volume. Gorgias, one of Plato's most widely read dialogues, addresses the temptations of worldly success and the rewards of moral life. Timaeus meticulously describes the world in terms of physical, metaphysical, religious, and psychological laws and characteristics of humankind. Unabridged republication of the B. Jowett translation.
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The book may have numerous typos or missing text. It is not illustrated or indexed. However, purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original rare book from the publisher's website. You can also preview the book there.Purchasers are also entitled to a trial membership in the publisher's book club where they can select from more than a million books for free.Original Publisher: George Bell ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

excellent shape
better than i expected considering it was a penny. through this book i learned more about how powerful philosophy can be than in my intro to philosophy course

The Socratic method is still valid.
This Bantam Classics edition presents, through translations by different sources, eight of Plato's "early" dialogues, all involving Socrates, his apotheosized master.Written in the form of question-and-answer sessions, these dialogues profile a man in a continuous quest for the truth, even when he is awaiting his execution, and demonstrate a particular system of gathering information and building knowledge, a system that is nothing less than the foundation of Western thought.

The oracle at Delphi stated that Socrates was the wisest of men because he knew that his wisdom was paltry -- unlike the Sophists, who not only thought they could teach things like virtue and "excellence" to the youth of Athens but also charged money for their tutelage.Since Socrates admits to knowing nothing, he gains all his knowledge through inquiry, deferring to his interlocutors' presumed knowledge, often using sarcasm with the Sophists.His questions commonly use logic of the form "If A is the same as B and B is the opposite of C, isn't A the opposite of C?"

Socrates saw himself as a "gadfly" to Athenian society, always seeking truth -- an absolute truth, as opposed to the moral relativism taught by the Sophists and practiced by the Athenians.His basic interest was inquiring of the way a man should live his life, one conclusion being that to suffer is better than to cause suffering, since the immortal soul is judged constantly by the gods.

Some of the arguments might seem specious to the modern reader, but the importance of reading the dialogues is not necessarily to agree with any particular argument presented but to observe an intensely systematic and organized method of gaining knowledge through interrogatory dialogue.First-hand experience tells me that asking and answering questions is a better way to learn than listening to a one-sided lecture, and reading Plato's Socratic recollections confirms my opinion.

A must read for logically-challenged Liberals!
Unfortunately, the public school system of America has eradicated all courses relative to developing a student's ability to reason, and reason well.Rhetoric,and the 'Socratic Method' were essential parts of a collegiate student's curriculum in medieval Europe, and the universities of America would not be remiss in re-introducing this dynamic type of verbal intercourse today.

inadequate description, translation
The pleasure of Plato is as much from his literary as from his philosophical acumen. The choice of the public-domain Jowett translation is unhappy for bringing out the literary merit of the original. This Victorian prose, while usually competent as translation, does not ring true to the original and certainly does nothing for the late 20th century American ear. One wonders why the set is so expensive when the translation was had for nothing. And why doesn't Amazon print the contents of these cassettes in their bibliographical information. Does one have to buy the set to find out exactly what its contents are>

Simply Wonderful!
Plato's work is brilliant!Socrates was the greatest philosopher of all time, and reading about his wisdom and virtue is absolutely moving.Socrates is such an inspiration to the world, and this book should be required reading for all human beings to teach them how to be truly good people.Socrates is my role model, and this book is absolutely wonderful in showing the incredible wisdom of this divine man. ... Read more

Product Description
Plato : Parmenides, written by legendary author Plato is widely considered to be one of the greatest classic and historical texts of all time. This great classic will surely attract a whole new generation of readers. For many, Plato : Parmenides is required reading for various courses and curriculums. And for others who simply enjoy reading timeless pieces of classic literature, this gem by Plato is highly recommended. Published by Classic Books International and beautifully produced, Plato : Parmenides would make an ideal gift and it should be a part of everyone's personal library. ... Read more

Product Description
Among the most important and influential philosophical works in Western thought: Euthyphro, exploring the concepts and aims of piety and religion; Apology, a defense of the integrity of Socrates’ teachings; Crito, exploring Socrates’ refusal to flee his death sentence; and Phaedo, in which Socrates embraces death and discusses the immortality of the soul. Translations by the distinguished classical scholar, Benjamin Jowett.
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Customer Reviews (13)

nice work
the book was in the condition that was stated, but took a little longer to arrive then i expected. in this day and age i have come to expect things to arrive instantly, sometimes unfairly. They did a good job overall.

One of the Greatest Books of All-Time
This magnificent compilation has four Plato writings:"Euthyphro," "Apology," "Crito," and "Phaedo." Though apparently early works and not as complex or philosophically influential as later ones, they are immensely important in portraying Socrates' trial and death. They are our clearest picture of the historical Socrates and would be invaluable for this alone. Indeed, I have read hundreds - perhaps thousands - of books, and this is one of my ten or so favorites, mostly because of how moving the depiction of the great man's last days is. The story of Socrates' Apology and last moments is part of world literature's very fabric, an immortal part of Western cultural heritage. Anyone who wants to learn about Socrates should start here. However, the works have great value even aside from this; a few have indeed questioned their historical veracity. This does not affect their philosophical, literary, and political worth, which is of the highest, making the book doubly essential.

"Euthyphro" is the least important work philosophically and probably not meant as historical, but it is still worthwhile. It examines the important "What is piety?" question and, like many Platonic dialogues, does not have anything like a definite conclusion. Some find this aspect frustrating, and it is certainly beguiling, but those who have experience with it come to love it. Like Socrates, Plato is after all too intelligent to give hard and fast answers; in all likelihood, he knows there are not any. What he does is far more important - lead us to think for ourselves and come to our own conclusions if we can. "Euthyphro" is a good, if relatively minor, example. It also introduces what philosophers call the Euthyphro Problem; here it is "Are good things good because they are loved by the gods, or are they loved by the gods because they are good?," but it has been restated in innumerable forms. This is in some ways an unrepresentative dialogue and thus an unfortunate one to begin the book, because it seems to prove the stereotype that philosophy obsesses over inane, probably unanswerable questions of no practical use. The Euthyphro Problem seems truly asinine as given - or, in our post-postmodern world, simply irrelevant. However, we can begin to see its importance when we replace "good" and "loved by the gods" with whatever seems most pressing. Such is after all the kind of thing Plato wanted; we are not supposed to read in narrow literal terms but use him as a starting point for our path to wisdom. This is an instructive example of how Plato has been immensely influential far beyond his apparent significance.

"Apology" is Plato's least philosophical and most unrepresentative work but arguably his most important and is among many readers' favorites, including mine. The book's title is misleading in that this is prose rather than dialogue; it purports to be Socrates' self-defense at his trial. It is historically priceless if so, as it gives his last public statements and some background about his life and the lead up to the trial. Even if not, it is of immense worth as a passionate, sound defense of individualism and free speech; its timeless evocation of these all-important concepts is forever associated with Socrates and the main reason he has been immortalized. The work also piercingly examines the often vast law/conscience gap and is thus an early higher law document. Finally, it is a sort of mini-dialogue in itself touching on and in several ways tying up classic Socrates/Plato themes like the nature of piety and goodness, responsibility toward the gods and the state, interpersonal relations, and life vs. death issues. It sums up Socrates and perhaps Plato better than any other work.

"Crito" is a possibly partly historical account of the title character visiting Socrates in jail to inform him that he is able to escape via bribe; Socrates famously says that he accepts his sentence and argues down contrary pleas. This gives incredible potential insight into Socrates, in many ways telling us more about his character and thought than a full biography ever could. Again, though, it transcends this philosophically and otherwise and is particularly relevant politically. It also examines the law/conscience gap and gives further background on Socrates but is notable above all as a very early example of the social contract theory of government. This is an astonishing example of how advanced Plato was, as the theory is generally considered to have been founded by Thomas Hobbes nearly a millennium later. Even more amazingly, it is put forth more clearly and persuasively here than perhaps anywhere else, making the dialogue essential for anyone interested in political theory.

"Phaedo" ostensibly details Socrates' last moments, including his last look at his wife and child, his last dialogue, his last words to friends, and his actual death. A large part of Socrates' image comes from this, and its potential historical value is inconceivable, though its historicity can easily be doubted since the work itself strongly suggests that Plato was not there. Even so, it is likely accurate in regard to the things that really matter and certainly a fine account of how it very well could have been. It is extremely moving; shot through with pathos, it is one of the most affecting things I have ever read. One can surely not read it without being overcome by emotion; I can hardly even think of it without misty eyes. Anyone who respects and admires this central Western civilization figure will be profoundly touched; his famous last words seem comic out of context but are very much otherwise here, telling us much about Socrates and moving us yet further. This would be one of the greatest works of all-time if it had no other aspect, but it is also a fine dialogue appropriately dealing mostly with death. Plato examines perennial questions like the soul's immortality and metempsychosis very thoroughly and thought-provokingly, and the conclusion - unsurprisingly, given the circumstances - has uncharacteristic certainty. It may not convince our cynical, empiricist, science-loving, twentieth century-surviving age, but the argument is certainly well-made and in many ways admirable. The dialogue touches on other important subjects also and is generally seen as the culmination of Plato's early, Socrates-centered thought.

It is important to realize that these four works were not originally published together, but the trial and death connection means they are often collected. There are many such editions, but this is the least expensive and probably the most widely available, making it ideal for most; it also has extra value in that many versions lack "Euthyphro." However, all should know that, like other Dover Thrift Editions, this is bare bones, having only a short headnote besides the text. Anyone wanting supplemental material will need to look elsewhere; such things are very important in regard to texts of this age and importance, and most general readers will probably need them for comprehension. It is thus tempting to recommend the book mostly for those with some knowledge of Plato and/or Socrates, and it will be helpful to have read Plato previously. That said, these are Plato's most accessible writings and largely speak for themselves, arguably making this an ideal introduction, especially considering the price.

The ever-important translation issue must also be kept in mind. It goes without saying that anyone who cares about intellectual issues, especially applied ones, must know Plato, as should anyone who wants to be even basically well-read. However, this is far easier said than done for most; he is so different from what now passes for literature, to say nothing of pop culture, that he is virtually inaccessible to general readers. Yet the importance of persevering cannot be overemphasized; the payoff is well worth the effort. As nearly always in such cases, reading him becomes far easier after the initial difficulty; no attentive reader will ever think Plato easy reading, but he is utterly absorbing once we get used to his style. He has a near-poetic beauty that all agree has never even been remotely approached in philosophy, and such mesmerizing prose is rare in any genre. His dialogues are an incredible form at once intellectually and aesthetically pleasing - an inspired combination that has perhaps never been bettered; many have appropriated it, but none have matched it. All this means that picking the right translation is probably more important with Plato than any other writer. This Benjamin Jowett translation is now quite old but still very accessible; it will work quite well for most, but anyone struggling should try a more recent version. For the average reader, the more recent, the better is generally true. The important thing is to read Plato in some form, and those who happen on a translation that does not work for them should keep trying until their mind opens in a truly new way - and once done, it will never close again.

All told, though this edition is not the best for all, anyone wanting an inexpensive Plato/Socrates primer could hardly do better.

Book
Never read the book needed it for class but it arrived quickly and in great condition.

true to the socrates' principles
Excellent book highlighting the need and importance of logical reasoning for a better understanding of everything one encounters

All you need to know on how to live a good life
is in this book.Socrates was proclaimed (by the Oracle at Delphi, the voice of Apollo) to be the wisest man in Athens.After the Democracy had come back after the defeat in the Peloponnesian Wars, the mob needed someone to take the blame, and Socrates was the designated victim.He continues on his path happily, knowing that he has served Athens in the best way that he could.You can't beat the price for this copy of the four dialogues that make up his trial and death, and you can't ask for a better role model than Socrates!

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