Likeness and Likelihood in the Presocratics and Plato

This book explores the philosophical exploitation of the Greek word eoikos by three philosophers,Xenophanes, Parmenides, and Plato, tracing the development of its use from fallibilism to deceptive cosmology. It argues that these philosophers manipulate the contexts and connotations of the term to enhance our understanding of their epistemology and methodology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Greek term "eoikos" holds a rich linguistic spectrum, encompassing meanings such as similarity, plausibility, and suitability. This captivating book delves into the philosophical exploration of its multifaceted interpretations by three renowned philosophers: Xenophanes, Parmenides, and Plato. Through meticulous analysis, it unveils fresh perspectives on how each philosopher employs the term to articulate the essence of their respective philosophies. The journey traced in this book spans from the fallibilistic tendencies of Xenophanes to the deceptive cosmology of Parmenides, culminating in Plato's profound Timaeus. At its core, the book posits that Xenophanes, Parmenides, and Plato engage in a subtle manipulation of the contexts and connotations associated with the term as it has been employed by their predecessors. By emphasizing this continuity in the development of the philosophical use of "eoikos," the book not only deepens our understanding of the epistemology and methodology of Xenophanes, Parmenides, and Plato's Timaeus but also offers a profound insight into the intricate tapestry of ancient Greek philosophy.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108994095