Διερευνώντας τις σχέσεις μουσικής και φιλοσοφίας: Σωκράτης – Πλάτων – Νίτσε

Abstract

In Plato's dialogue "Phaedo", Socrates describes a dream in which the central concept is that of music. Three philosophers interpret this dream, Socrates himself, Nietzsche and Plato. These interpretations could be the basis for a fuller understanding of the nature of music and its philosophical dimension. Apollo’s urge to Socrates to make music, constitutes, in the eyes of the philosopher, an encouragement to continue his engagement with philosophy. Nietzsche argues that Apollo advises Socrates to engage with music (music in the common sense) and he considers art as a necessary complement to science. Nietzsche maintains that Socrates was unable to repudiate the logic which dominates his nature. Finally, in Plato's work, the term "music" seems to cover three areas and in this way constitutes a perspective that sees the two previous proposals as complementary. Plato’s interpretation reveals the deeper educational function of music. At the same time, this interpretation provides a glimpse to Plato’s self-understanding as a philosopher, and to his dedication to establish the existence of deep links between art and philosophy, thus revealing the philosophical dimensions of music.