misReading Plato: Continental and Psychoanalytic Glimpses Beyond the Mask

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Plato's Republic is reinterpreted in light of psychoanalysis, phenomenology, and contemporary Continental philosophy in this book, offering new and complex interpretations of Plato's work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Plato's dialogues offer intricate and unconventional interpretations, enriching our understanding of his philosophical ideas. By engaging with psychoanalysis, phenomenology, and contemporary Continental thought, the author expands the horizons of the dialogues, shedding light on their psychological, spiritual, and ethical dimensions. This groundbreaking approach addresses a longstanding gap in the literature, perpetuated throughout centuries, which stems from the narrow perception of Plato as a metaphysician, moralist, or political philosopher rather than recognizing him as a foremost psychologist and healer of the human soul.

The author delves into the depths of Plato's psyche, exploring his profound insights into the human condition. Through a multidisciplinary lens, they unravel the intricate interplay between the mind, body, and soul, shedding light on the complexities of human behavior, emotions, and the search for meaning. The dialogues are contextualized within the broader framework of psychoanalysis, which provides a valuable tool for understanding the unconscious processes that shape our thoughts and behaviors. By integrating psychoanalytic theories with Plato's philosophical ideas, the author offers fresh perspectives on topics such as desire, morality, and the nature of reality.

Furthermore, the author employs phenomenology to examine the subjective experiences and perceptions of the characters in the dialogues. By analyzing the ways in which individuals perceive the world and interpret their experiences, the author gains a deeper understanding of the human condition and the complexities of human consciousness. The dialogues are seen as living entities, capable of evoking emotions and provoking thought, and the author explores the ways in which they can be used as tools for self-reflection and personal growth.

In addition to psychoanalysis and phenomenology, the author also draws upon contemporary Continental thought to enrich the interpretations of Plato's dialogues. By engaging with thinkers such as Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty, and Levinas, the author explores the ethical and political implications of Plato's ideas and how they resonate with contemporary concerns. The author emphasizes the importance of dialogue and the role of philosophy in shaping our understanding of the world, and how Plato's dialogues can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and transformative change.

Through their comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, the author not only offers new insights into Plato's dialogues but also contributes to the broader field of philosophy. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the depths of human consciousness, psychology, and the philosophical tradition. It encourages readers to engage with Plato's texts in a fresh and thought-provoking manner, challenging them to think beyond traditional boundaries and embrace a more holistic understanding of the human experience.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032062693