Single Idea 23249

[catalogued under 2. Reason / A. Nature of Reason / 1. On Reason]

Full Idea

It is part of the notion of reason according to these philosophers [Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Stoics] that reason has its own needs and desires.

Gist of Idea

The early philosophers thought that reason has its own needs and desires

Source

Michael Frede (Intro to 'Rationality in Greek Thought' [1996], p.5)

Book Reference

'Rationality in Greek Thought', ed/tr. Frede,M /Striker,G [OUP 1999], p.5


A Reaction

This sounds as if reason is treated as a separate person within a person. Anyone solving a logical puzzle feels that reason has its own compulsion. 'Boulesis' is the desire characteristic of reason.

Related Idea

Idea 23250 Desired responsible actions result either from rational or from irrational desire [Aristotle]