Plato's Thought in the Making

by John E. Raven

The philosophy of Plato embraces much more than metaphysics; his primary concern was with the question of how man should conduct himself as he ought, and metaphysics was studied for the sake of this. Yet for most readers 'Plato' suggests the Theory of Ideas, probably disguised behind some such popular concept as 'platonic' love. Mr Raven sets out to explain, to the ordinary reader, how this central theory grew in Plato's mind and out of his experience, and what were its eventual implications. He has a gift for the clear exposition of concepts that are by no means easy. This 1965 book is intended primarily for the serious student of philosophy (who needs no Greek to read it) and will also appeal to anyone interested in human thought and its development.

Genres: Philosophy

270 pages, Paperback

First published January 2, 1965

About the author

John Earle Raven, who published as J. E. Raven, was an English classical scholar, notable for his work on presocratic philosophy, and amateur botanist.

Reviews

[James Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

J. E. Raven provides an analysis of several of Plato's dialogues with a focus on the development of his metaphysics. After a brief biographical introduction the author analyzes dialogues including Protagoras, Gorgias, Meno Phaedo, Symposium, and the Republic. He devotes a separate chapter to a presentation of the allegories of the "Sun, Divided Line and Cave". He concludes the book with an analysis of Parmenides, the Sophist and Timaeus. This is a rather thorough presentation of some of the key ideas of Plato as expressed in these substantial dialogues. With the inclusion of a bibliography, index of quotes, and general index the book becomes a valuable adjunct to the serious reader of Plato's dialogues.

[Justin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the parts where he leans in and delivers a 2-3 page long quote from Plato. There's nothing like exceedingly small font, and a very brief commentary on a long passage. It just tickles my fancy.