The Cambridge Companion to the Sophists

The Classical Greek sophists, such as Protagoras, Gorgias, Prodicus, Hippias, and Antiphon, were influential figures in linguistic, historical, and philosophical reflection during the time of Socrates. They have been debated since Plato, with some deriding them as reactionaries, relativists, or cynically superficial thinkers. This volume offers a fresh perspective on the sophists, examining their predecessors, historical context, intellectual themes, and reception from the fourth century BCE to modernity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Classical Greek sophists, including Protagoras, Gorgias, Prodicus, Hippias, and Antiphon, were pivotal figures in the flourishing of linguistic, historical, and philosophical reflection during the time of Socrates. Their significance and contributions to fifth-century intellectual culture have been a subject of intense debate since Plato's era. These thinkers have often been criticized as reactionaries, relativists, cynically superficial thinkers, or mere opportunists who capitalized on wealthy democrats seeking public reputation. This volume offers a fresh perspective on the sophists, exploring their unity, uniqueness, and the interpretations made by later thinkers.

In the first section, contributors examine the predecessors and historical context of the sophists. They explore the influences and traditions that shaped their thought, including the Eleatic school, the Pythagoreans, and the Socratic tradition. This section sheds light on the intellectual landscape of the time and provides a foundation for understanding the sophists' contributions.

The second section delves into the major intellectual themes of the sophists. Contributors discuss their views on language, ethics, society, and religion, which were central to their philosophical inquiry. They analyze the sophists' arguments, theories, and criticisms, and explore how their ideas influenced subsequent philosophical movements.

The third section examines the reception of the sophists from the fourth century BCE to modernity. Contributors explore how the sophists were perceived and interpreted by different thinkers and cultures throughout history. They analyze the impact of their ideas on philosophy, literature, art, and politics, and discuss the enduring relevance of their thought.

In conclusion, this volume provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the sophists, challenging traditional perspectives and offering a fresh understanding of their significance in the history of philosophy. The contributors' diverse perspectives and scholarly expertise contribute to a rich and engaging account of these influential thinkers.

Weight: 750g
ISBN-13: 9781108796859