Philosophical Works Essay Examples and Topics
Socrates’ Refutations of Meno’s Definitions of Virtue
In Plato's Meno, Socrates and Meno discuss the nature of virtue and whether or not it can be taught. Socrates refutes all of Meno's proposed definitions of virtue, but fails to provide a positive definition himself. As a result, the dialogue is disappointing and does not show that virtue cannot be taught.
MoreLove, Art, and Beauty in Plato’s The Symposium
Aristophanes offers a different account of love and beauty in his speech which is based on the myth of Aristophanes. According to the myth, humans were once two-faced creatures who had four arms and four legs. However, they were so arrogant that Zeus decided to punish them by splitting them in half so that they would only have two arms and two legs. As a result of this punishment, humans are now constantly searching for their other half so that they can be whole again. Aristophanes goes on to suggest that our desire for love is motivated by our desire to find our other half and that this is why we feel attracted to those who are similar to us. He argues that this is also why we find physical beauty so attractive because it is a reflection of inner beauty. Aristophanes' account of love
MoreHsun Tzu’s View of Human Nature: Is Education a Tool for Control or Development?
In this essay, Hsun Tzu's view of human nature is explored. It is argued that while his view may have some implications for education, it is ultimately up to each individual to decide what they believe about human nature.
MoreThe Importance of Individual Liberty and Equality in On Liberty and The Subjection of Women
On Liberty and The Subjection of Women are two highly influential works by John Stuart Mill which emphasize the importance of individual liberty and equality respectively. These concepts are essential for both individuals and society as they lead to progress and betterment.
MoreJohn Stuart Mill’s On Liberty: The Importance of Individual Liberty in a Society
On Liberty is a work of political and social philosophy by John Stuart Mill, in which he argues for the importance of individual liberty in a society. He outlines the conditions under which that liberty can be limited, and makes the case that even when the harm principle is satisfied, there should still be a presumption in favor of liberty.
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