Philosophy as a Study of Death: An Approach Based on Plato's Phaedo
Abstract
This article explores the ontological and existential significance of death within the framework of Platonic philosophy, specifically as presented in the dialogue Phaedo. The author examines the Socratic definition of philosophy as a "preparation for death" (melete thanatou), arguing that death is not merely a biological end but a transformative event that defines the dialectical relationship between life and the soul. The paper discusses the Platonic dualism of body and soul, where the body is viewed as a "prison" (sοma) and death acts as the liberation of the intellect (nous) to contemplate true Reality and the Ideas. Furthermore, the study contrasts the Platonic view of the afterlife and the immortality of the soul with the perspectives of the Stoics—who viewed suicide as a rational "exit" under certain conditions—and the Orphic mysteries. Ultimately, the author suggests that understanding death is essential for achieving ethical maturity and a meaningful conscious life.
Article Details
- How to Cite
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Papasimakis, G. (2020). Philosophy as a Study of Death: An Approach Based on Plato’s Phaedo . Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (5), 29–35. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.22687
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- No. 5 (2008)
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- Articles
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