An Approach To The Metaphysics Of Plato Through The Parmenides

by WILLIAM F LYNCH SJ

“This interesting and scholarly book will appeal primarily to students of Plato. Recommended for academic, theological & large public libraries.”-–Library JournalIncludes bibliographical references.

Genres: Philosophy

270 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1959

Reviews

[Erik Graff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book by the Jesuit Wm F. Lynch (1908-1987) for one of the first courses taken at Loyola University Chicago. Taught during the first semester of 1980/81 by another Jesuit, Leo Sweeney, it was ostensibly a survey of Plato, but actually turned out to be a study of his theory of forms. Not knowing that, I read all of Plato and many other works about the philosopher. Having recently graduated from seminary, I wanted to do a paper on Plato's ideas about gods and goddesses, every reference to whom I noted and compiled after getting the paper topic approved early on in the semester by Fr. Sweeney. Then, towards the term's end, most of the research being completed, we were to turn in an outline. Sweeney now said the topic was inappropriate as the course had focused on the theory of forms. "But, but you approved this..." I protested. He claimed to have no recollection of his prior approval and I was compelled to write something about epistemology.

That was the last course I took with the forgetful Sweeney.