Philosophical Dialectic vs. Sophistic Rhetoric free essay sample

Analysis of Platos Gorgias, specifically dealing with the importance of philosophical dialectic in the Socratic method, as well as Socrates criticism of sophistic rhetoric. This paper is an in depth examination of Platos Gorgias. It focuses on the importance, for Plato, of demonstrating that philosophy, not rhetoric, is the basis of the good life and of human happiness. The author explores both political and personal, and philosophical implications. Among some other topics touched upon are Platos definition of the good, his understanding of the soul, and his basic political philosophy. Rhetoric, the art that Gorgias claims to possess, is in every way opposed to wisdom and the good. Plato emphasizes this point from the very beginning of the dialogue. Socrates lateness to Gorgias declamation is a deliberate tactic. Whereas Gorgias speech is meant to be a performance, Socrates is interested in a discussion. Philosophical conversation is concerned with dialectical definitions and essences, while rhetoric is concerned with mere appearances. We will write a custom essay sample on Philosophical Dialectic vs. Sophistic Rhetoric or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Socrates compares the distinction to the difference between the way a chef prepares food, purely to impress the diners, to the way a nutritionist does, scientifically and using reason.