Self-Motion and the Physical Motion

Abstract

In order to demonstrate the existence of the god, Plato introduces an investigation into the kinds of movement in the Laws X. This research begins obviously with the circular movement and the local movement of the Platonic Polyhedrons, follows with their combination, separation, growth and decay that result in the generation and destruction of the four elements and all perceptible things, and ends with the corporeal movement that encompasses the preceding eight elemental motion-types, and the motion of the soul, which is proclaimed to be the self-motion. Given that the self-motion is caused by the intellect and functions as the principle and reason of all physical movements in the χώρα, the soul is deemed to be divine, in this sense the existence of the god is demonstrated.