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PLATO, SOPHIST 259C7–D7: CONTRARY PREDICATION AND GENUINE REFUTATION.

Authors :
Proios, John D.
Source :
Classical Quarterly. May2023, Vol. 73 Issue 1, p66-77. 12p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

This paper defends an interpretation of Plato, Soph. 259c7–d7, which describes a distinction between genuine and pretender forms of 'examination' or 'refutation' (ἔλεγχος). The passage speaks to a need, throughout the dialogue, to differentiate the truly philosophical method from the merely eristic method. But its contribution has been obscured by the appearance of a textual problem at 259c7–8. As a result, scholars have largely not recognized that the Eleatic Stranger recommends accepting contrary predication as a condition of genuine refutation. After reviewing various proposals to change the text, the paper defends this reading. Finally, the paper turns to the methodological significance of accepting contrary predication. The dialogue depicts contrary predication as an instance of a class of statements that compel the soul's disbelief. Soph. 259c7–d7 suggests that these kinds of statements are a crossroad: one can either reject them and turn to eristic discourse or accept them and practise genuine refutation. The paper reflects on what this indicates about Plato's meditations on contradiction and philosophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00098388
Volume :
73
Issue :
1
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Classical Quarterly
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
174600383
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1017/S0009838823000344