Topic > How the idea of ​​recollection in "Meno" differs from "Phaedo"

IndexCollection in "Meno"Collection in "Phaedo"Key DifferencesConclusionReferencesIn Plato's dialogues "Meno" and "Phaedo", the concept of remembrance plays a role significant role in addressing 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Remembrance in "Meno" In the dialogue "Meno", Plato introduces the idea of ​​remembrance as an answer to Meno's question: "Can you say, Socrates, whether virtue is something that can be taught?" Socrates' response is not a direct explanation of virtue but rather an exploration of the nature of knowledge and learning. Socrates begins by questioning an uneducated slave about geometry. Although the boy initially has no knowledge of geometry, Socrates guides him through a series of questions, helping the boy arrive at the correct answers without being taught any specific geometric theorems. Socrates argues that this process demonstrates that the boy must have known the answers all along, and the act of remembering this knowledge through questioning is what leads to understanding. In “Meno,” memory is presented as a form of innate knowledge that the soul possesses. before birth. Socrates suggests that all learning is a process of remembering what the soul already knows but has forgotten due to the distractions of the physical world. This vision is in line 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 to 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 memory of general knowledge, "Phaedo" extends the concept to the memory of eternal truths and the nature of the soul. reality itself. Socrates argues that the soul, being immortal and connected to the realm of Forms, possesses knowledge of abstract concepts such as justice, beauty, and equality. Through philosophical contemplation and dialectical reasoning, individuals can gather and awaken this innate knowledge, gradually ascending towards wisdom. In "Phaedo", meditation does not only consist in recovering previously learned information, but in reconnecting with the eternal truths that underlie the physical world. The search for philosophy, according to Socrates, is a journey of the soul towards the memory and understanding of the Forms. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Key Differences Scope of Recollection : One of the key differences between the two dialogues is the scope of recollection. In "Meno" the memory concerns above all general culture and is illustrated through a practical example involving geometry. In “Phaedo,” memory extends 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 the existence of the soul's pre-existing knowledge. In "Phaedo", memory is linked to the immortality of the soul and philosophical research"/