DeepSummary
Lysimachus and Melesias seek advice from Nicias, Laches, and Socrates on how to educate their sons in courage. Laches initially defines courage as remaining at one's post and fighting the enemy, but Socrates challenges this narrow view, arguing that courage applies in various contexts beyond just battle. Nicias then proposes that courage is the knowledge of what inspires fear or confidence, but Socrates refutes this too, demonstrating that courage cannot simply be reduced to a particular kind of knowledge.
The discussion becomes increasingly complex as Socrates dissects the proposed definitions, revealing contradictions and establishing that courage is connected to wisdom about good and evil more broadly. Nicias eventually agrees that according to his latest definition, courage would encompass all virtue rather than being just one part of it. In the end, no satisfactory definition of courage is reached.
Socrates concludes that they should seek out expert teachers to help guide the youths' education, as well as their own ongoing learning. He emphasizes the importance of modesty and a willingness to continue studying into old age in order to properly understand virtues like courage.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Defining virtues like courage is a complex philosophical challenge that resists simplistic definitions.
- True courage requires wisdom and an understanding of what is truly good or evil, not just reckless bravery.
- Expertise on complex topics should be sought from qualified teachers, not assumed.
- Even respected elders should retain an attitude of humility and a willingness to continue learning.
- Character virtues like courage are deeply interconnected with wisdom and other virtues.
- Socratic questioning can expose flaws in proposed definitions and reveal contradictions.
- Ongoing philosophical discussion and examination is required to shed light on core concepts.
- Looking only to embarrass others displays a lack of true understanding and wisdom.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “But you, Nicias and Laches, must determine whether you will be questioned, and give an explanation about matters of this sort.“ by Lysimachus
- “I perceive, Laches, that you think nothing of having displayed your ignorance of the nature of courage, but you look only to see whether I have not made a similar display.“ by Nicias
- “To make a long story short, I will only tell you what happened to this notable invention of the scythe spearhead. He was fighting in the scythe end, caught in the rigging of the other ship, and stuck fast, and he tugged, but was unable to get his weapon free.“ by Laches
- “Let us then, regardless of the remarks which are made upon us, make the education of the youths our own education.“ by Socrates
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Episode Information
Classic Audiobook Collection
Classic Literature
6/14/24
Laches by Plato audiobook.
Laches discusses examples of courage including weapons masters, soldiers who stand firm in battle, ferocious animals and the wise person who endures evils.
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