Plato (c.428-347 BCE) stands at the beginning of many debates that have continued throughout the history of philosophy. His literary career spanned fifty years and the influence of his ideas and those of his followers pervaded philosophy throughout antiquity. Andrew Mason's lucid and engaging introduction, draws on recent scholarship to offer a fresh general survey of Plato's philosophy. Aware of the methodological challenges that confront any writer on Plato, Mason handles the issue of Plato's intellectual development and relationship with Socrates with an assured grasp. Thematically structured, the book begins with Plato's principal contribution to metaphysics, the 'Theory of Forms', which forms a necessary background to his thought in many areas. His theory of knowledge, which is intimately linked with the Forms is explored in detail along with Plato's views of the soul, an important theme in itself and an entry point to discussion of his ethics, one of Plato's major concerns. Finally, the book deals with two areas of Plato's thought which have had an especially important historical impact, not confined to academic philosophy: his theory of God and nature, and his aesthetics. Throughout, Mason highlights the continuing themes in Plato's work and how they develop from one dialogue to another.

About the Author
Andrew Mason lectures in philosophy at the University of Edinburgh.

Reviews
"A very good introduction to the thought of Plato, which neither presupposes any prior knowledge on the reader's part nor falls back on the easy generalizations that characterize so many introductory texts. The result is to make Plato more challenging to new readers and to put more real philosophizing in front of them. Throughout, Mason's clear, unhurried and unheated style makes thinking about Plato seem to be something any thoughtful person would want to do. A pleasure to read." - Nickolas Pappas, Graduate Center, CUNY"



Book Information
ISBN 9781844651740
Author Andrew Mason
Format Paperback
Page Count 256
Imprint Acumen Publishing Ltd
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 470g