26th Annual Student Research Conference
Platonic Ethics of Embodiment
Kara D. Boschert
Dr. Patricia Burton, Faculty Mentor
The doctrine of the immortal soul in addition to prescribed soul-care are dominant aspects of the Middle Dialogues which may seem to indicate that the corporeal was of little importance to Plato. A conventional view is that, for Plato, the body is merely an earthly distraction which must be overcome in order to pursue philosophy and care for one's soul. It cannot be disputed that Plato believed the condition of one's soul was principally important, however the implications of embodiment for his philosophy are not entirely agreed upon. My research has led me to conclude that Plato believed having a body was significant in terms of the higher activity of caring for one's soul. In my paper I argue that a holistic care of the entire being, not just the soul, is advocated for in Plato's Middle Dialogues to facilitate a flourishing soul and virtuous action in one's community.
Keywords: Plato, Philosophy & Religion, Bioethics
Topic(s):Philosophy & Religion
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 304-2
Location: MG 1000
Time: 1:15