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Essay / How the idea of remembrance in "Meno" differs from "Phaedo"
Table of contentsRecollection in "Meno"Recollection in "Phaedo"Key differencesConclusionReferencesIn Plato's dialogues "Meno" and "Phaedo", the concept of remembrance plays an important role in resolving questions about knowledge, learning and the nature of the soul. Although both dialogues involve Socratic discussions on this topic, they differ in emphasis and approach. This essay aims to explore how the idea of remembrance differs in “Meno” compared to “Phaedo”. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayRecollection in “Meno”In the dialogue “Meno,” Plato introduces the idea of recollection in response to Meno's question: “Can you tell me, Socrates, is virtue something that can be taught? Socrates' response is not a simple explanation of virtue but rather an exploration of the nature of knowledge and learning. Socrates begins by questioning a young, uneducated slave about geometry. Although the boy initially has no knowledge of geometry, Socrates guides him through a series of questions, helping him find correct answers without teaching him any specific geometric theorems. Socrates argues that this process demonstrates that the boy must have known the answers all along, and that the act of remembering this knowledge through questioning is what leads to understanding. In “Meno,” memory is presented as a form of innate knowledge possessed by the soul. before birth. Socrates suggests that all learning is a process of recalling what the soul already knows but has forgotten due to the distractions of the physical world. This view aligns with Plato's theory of the immortality of the soul and its pre-existence in the world of Forms. Remembrance in “Phaedo” In contrast, “Phaedo” explores the idea of remembrance in the context of the immortality of the soul and the philosophical journey. towards wisdom. This dialogue takes place on the day of Socrates' execution and the central theme is the immortality of the soul. Socrates argues that the soul is immortal and that it existed before birth and will continue to exist after death. While “Meno” focuses on the recollection of general knowledge, “Phaedo” extends the concept to the recollection of eternal truths and the nature of reality itself. Socrates argues that the soul, being immortal and connected to the realm of Forms, possesses knowledge of abstract concepts like justice, beauty, and equality. Through philosophical contemplation and dialectical reasoning, individuals can remember and awaken this innate knowledge, gradually rising toward wisdom. In “Phaedo,” memorization is not just about retrieving previously learned information, but about reconnecting with the eternal truths that underpin the physical world. The pursuit of philosophy, according to Socrates, is a journey of the soul towards this memory and understanding of the Forms. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Key Differences Scope of Memory: One of the main differences between the two dialogues is the scope of memory. In “Meno”, the reminiscence mainly concerns general knowledge and is illustrated by a practical example involving geometry. In “Phaedo,” memory expands into the realm of eternal truths, encompassing abstract concepts and the nature of reality itself. Purpose: The purpose of the memory also differs between dialogues. In "Meno", memory serves as an explanation for the acquisition of knowledge and as an argument in favor of"/