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Single Idea 204

[from 'Protagoras' by Plato, in 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / d. Teaching virtue ]

Full Idea

Socrates is contradicting himself by saying virtue is not teachable, and yet trying to demonstrate that every virtue is knowledge.

Clarification

'Virtue' here is the Greek word 'areté', which also translates as 'excellence'

Gist of Idea

Socrates is contradicting himself in claiming virtue can't be taught, but that it is knowledge

Source

Plato (Protagoras [c.380 BCE], 361b)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Protagoras and Meno', ed/tr. Guthrie,W K C [Penguin 1956], p.99