Why It Matters Today
Protagoras and Socrates' debates about truth, virtue, and knowledge remain central to modern discussions about relativism, ethics, and how we define reality.
Modern Connections
Big Ideas
Relativism in truth and morality
What’s true or right depends on who you ask—that’s what Protagoras believed.
The importance of virtue and knowledge
Knowing yourself and living morally are the keys to a good life.
What You'll Learn
- How Socrates challenged the Sophists' ideas about truth and virtue.
- The historical context of ancient Greek philosophy and Protagoras' role within it.
- The relevance of relativism and virtue in modern society.
Reader Fit
✅ Good For
- Philosophy students
- History enthusiasts
- Anyone interested in ethics and truth
⚠ Not Ideal For
- Readers seeking light entertainment
- Those uninterested in philosophical debates
Controversies & Critiques
- Protagoras’ relativism is often criticized for undermining objective truth.
- Modern critics argue that excessive relativism can erode the basis for justice and science.
Reading Context
Before Reading
- Basic knowledge of Socratic dialogues and Ancient Greek history.
After Reading
- Explore other dialogues by Plato, especially about virtue and knowledge.
- Read about modern debates on relativism and epistemology.
Similar Books
Appeals to fans of: Skeptical thinking, Debates on morals and ethics, Philosophy of language
Classification Details
Author
Plato
Published
-380
Language
English
Subjects
Classical literature, Socrates, 470 BC-399 BC, Virtue -- Early works to 1800, Sophists (Greek philosophy), Protagoras
Curated Collections
This book appears in these curated collections:
