Euthydemus

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Euthydemus has long been overlooked, often dismissed as a mere collection of sophistic fallacies. This book argues for its serious consideration, revealing it as a significant expression of Plato's philosophy, highlighting the dialogical essence of his thought, his innovative views on language and education, and the foundational importance of ethics. The Lectures focus on the dialogue not merely as literature but as essential for interpreting its themes. They explore Plato's concept of dialogue alongside his beliefs about language, both written and spoken, which he views as fundamentally non-communicative, contrasting with the sophistic art of correct speech. The sophistic claim regarding the impossibility of contradiction must be challenged for both logical and ethical reasons, with the soul, as the site of contradiction, emerging as crucial in Plato's ethics, philosophy of education, and language. The final Lecture illuminates the distinction between the Socratic method and sophistic eristic, a nuance missed by the dialogue's anonymous listener and many modern scholars. Scolnicov's insights reflect extensive engagement with Plato, free from the limitations of a single intellectual tradition, and encompass a keen interest in both philosophy and education. For those seeking a deeper understanding, the original dialogue remains essential reading.