Late Period

Definition

The Late Period refers to the final phase of Plato's philosophical development and writing, occurring around 360 to 347 BCE, when he produced some of his most significant works. During this time, Plato's ideas matured, reflecting a deepening of his thought on ethics, politics, and metaphysics, particularly in his dialogues such as 'The Laws' and 'Philebus.' This period is marked by a shift towards practical governance and a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between the ideal forms and their application in the real world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Late Period, Plato emphasized practical governance and the application of philosophical principles in societal structures.
2. Plato's work 'The Laws' stands out as a significant text from this time, presenting a detailed outline for a just society.
3. In contrast to earlier dialogues like 'The Republic,' the Late Period reflects a more pragmatic approach to ethics and politics.
4. This phase also shows a greater influence from external philosophical traditions, particularly those from the Pythagorean and Aristotelian schools.
5. Plato's later writings often feature a more critical stance toward democracy and an exploration of the role of law in achieving justice.

Review Questions

• How did Plato's philosophical approach evolve during the Late Period compared to his earlier works?
  • In the Late Period, Plato's philosophical approach shifted towards practicality and realism, moving away from purely theoretical ideals found in earlier works like 'The Republic.' He focused more on how philosophical concepts could be applied in governance and society. This evolution indicates a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in implementing his ideas about justice and morality within political systems.
• What are some key themes explored in Plato's dialogues from the Late Period, particularly in 'The Laws'?
  • 'The Laws' is significant for its exploration of themes such as justice, law, and governance. In this dialogue, Plato outlines his vision of an ideal society governed by laws rather than individuals. He emphasizes the importance of education and moral development for citizens to create a stable and just society. The text reflects Plato’s concerns about democracy and highlights the necessity of a legal framework for maintaining order and justice.
• Evaluate the impact of external philosophical influences on Plato's thought during the Late Period.
  • During the Late Period, external philosophical influences significantly shaped Plato's thought. The interaction with Pythagorean ideas contributed to his focus on mathematics and harmony as foundational elements of reality. Additionally, early Aristotelian concepts prompted him to reconsider aspects of his theory of Forms and their application in practical governance. This blend of influences illustrates how Plato’s philosophy was dynamic and responsive to broader intellectual trends, resulting in more refined views on ethics and politics.

Related terms

Academy: The school founded by Plato in Athens, which became one of the first institutions of higher learning in the Western world.

Socratic Method: A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue that stimulates critical thinking and illuminates ideas through questioning, heavily influenced by Socrates and utilized by Plato.

Forms: Plato's theory that non-material abstract forms, or ideas, represent the most accurate reality, which he discusses extensively throughout his works.