Lysis

Name: Lysis
Author: Plato

By Plato

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About This Book

Socrates conducts a probing conversation with two youths about the nature of friendship, asking whether the friend is the one who loves, the one who is loved, or both. Using examples such as parental care, medicine and health, and objects valued for the sake of something else, the speakers examine whether friendship rests on likeness, utility, or attachment to the good as remedy against harm. They distinguish instrumental affections from a supposed ultimate dearness that is valued for its own sake, and the inquiry closes without a single conclusive definition.

About the Author

Plato

Plato was an ancient Greek philosopher, a student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, whose works have profoundly influenced Western philosophy. He is best known for his dialogues, which explore various philosophical themes including ethics, politics, and metaphysics. Among his most notable works is the "Apology," which presents Socrates' defense during his trial. Plato founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world. His writings, characterized by their dialectical method and exploration of ideal forms, continue to be studied for their insights into human thought and society.