This course is an introduction to Socratic philosophy through reading four short dialogues: Meno, Theages, Laches, and Charmides. The subject of the Meno is virtue, and the other three dialogues each deal with one of the virtues: wisdom, courage, and moderation, respectively. In Plato’s dialogue, Phaedo, we learn that Socrates was initially interested in natural science, but that there came a point when he realized he could not study nature directly; instead, he had to make a “second sailing” (or take a second best route) by examining the speeches and actions of people about the aspect of nature most important to them: their own lives and how best to live. Through reading and discussing these four dialogues, we will join Socrates in his investigation of human virtue and the best way of life.
Read: Meno, Theages, Laches, and Charmides. The instructor will provide pdfs of all readings.