Plato on the Unity of the Virtues: A Dialectic Reading

Plato's Protagoras suggests that virtues are unified and distinct, but the way they are both one and many is ineffable. Rod Jenks argues that the thesis cannot be argued for or properly stated, and that the long exegesis on the Simonides poem is philosophically relevant. He also shows that the parts-of-the-face and gold analogies are inadequate, and that the unity thesis is supported by terrible arguments. Jenks explains why it is crucial to appreciate how virtue can be both one and many.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Plato's Protagoras presents a fascinating notion that the virtues are both profoundly unified and distinct. In his book "Plato on the Unity of the Virtues: A Dialectic Reading," Rod Jenks delves into this concept and argues that the nature of their unity is ultimately ineffable. Jenks demonstrates how Plato embraces ineffability in other parts of his corpus, providing an interpretation that sheds light on the enigmatic disagreement between Socrates and Protagoras.

Jenks' interpretation of Protagoras is particularly insightful in explaining the seemingly inexplicable inability of both Socrates and Protagoras to pinpoint the bone of contention between them. He challenges the thesis itself, stating that it cannot be argued for or properly stated. Furthermore, Jenks demonstrates the philosophical relevance of the long exegesis on the Simonides poem, highlighting how it contributes to the understanding of the unity thesis.

In addition, Jenks critiques the parts-of-the-face analogy and the gold analogy, arguing that Plato intended them to be inadequate. He explains why the unity thesis is supported by what most scholars consider to be weak arguments, namely that the virtues are both one and many. However, Jenks goes beyond these arguments and delves into the deeper significance of the unity claim, emphasizing why it is crucial for us to appreciate how virtue, despite having parts, can also be profoundly one.

Through his meticulous analysis, Jenks offers a comprehensive exploration of Plato's concept of the unity of the virtues. He sheds light on the complexities of this idea and provides a fresh perspective that challenges traditional interpretations. His book is a valuable contribution to the study of Plato and virtue ethics, offering insights that will engage scholars and students alike.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 237 x 161 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498592031