Theaetetus

Name: Theaetetus
Author: Plato

By Plato

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About This Book

A Socratic dialogue stages an inquiry into the nature and possibility of knowledge as Socrates interrogates a younger interlocutor. They test successive definitions—knowledge as perception, knowledge as true opinion, and knowledge as true opinion with an account—and expose paradoxes that challenge each formulation. The argument probes how perception, language, and thought relate, examines how false belief can occur, and uses the midwife metaphor for philosophical elicitation. The discussion ends without a definitive answer, highlighting methodological rigor and an aporetic conclusion rather than settled doctrine.

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.