The Philosopher's Duty
Abstract
This article explores the defining characteristics and moral obligations of a philosopher, primarily within the framework of Ancient Greek thought. The author examines various perspectives, from Heraclitus’s identification of the philosopher as a lover of universal Logos to Epicurus’s view of philosophy as a timeless practice essential for the "health of the soul" and personal happiness. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to Plato’s "Allegory of the Cave," which the author uses to argue that the true philosopher's duty extends beyond personal enlightenment to a societal "debt". According to this view, those who have attained knowledge of the truth must return to the "cave" of the empirical world to guide others and govern with integrity. Ultimately, Vlahos contends that the philosopher’s role is to awaken collective consciousness and strive for the realization of the "ideal state" through the exercise of reason and devotion to the common good.
Article Details
- How to Cite
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Vlahos, A. (2022). The Philosopher’s Duty . Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (15), 29–34. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.30731
- Issue
- No. 15 (2022)
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- Articles
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