Abstract
Abstract The Socrates of the dialogue Axiochus seems to advance incompatible arguments in his attempt to cure Axiochus of his fear of death. Is this incompatibility a foreseen and accepted consequence of the author’s therapeutic strategy? This paper argues that it is rather an intended and functional inconsistency: it serves to stimulate critical thinking in order to anchor philosophical conviction more deeply in the reader’s soul. The paper musters support for this reading by drawing attention to the different levels of inconsistency in the dialogue; the multiple ways in which the text thematizes inconsistency; the importance of exercising judgement in the text; and the motivating concern of superficial persuasion.
Highlights
The Axiochus, transmitted as part of the Platonic corpus, dates from anywhere between the second half of the third century BC to the first AD, but most likely from the first half of the first century BC.1 Its plot is simple: Socrates gets called to Axiochus’ deathbed to cure him of his fear of death
I argue, the author aims for his readers to reason for themselves about the status of the soul in order that they may move beyond superficial persuasion and firmly internalize the Platonic position
The second level of inconsistency that we find in the text is the reasoning behind Axiochus’ present fear
Summary
The Axiochus, transmitted as part of the Platonic corpus, dates from anywhere between the second half of the third century BC to the first AD, but most likely from the first half of the first century BC.1 Its plot is simple: Socrates gets called to Axiochus’ deathbed to cure him of his fear of death. Axiochus – pseudo-Plato – dialogue form – inconsistency – philosophy as therapy – Platonism – Epicureanism
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: The International Journal of the Platonic Tradition
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
