Classics Colloquium with Evan Rodriguez

Evan Rodriguez from Idaho State University will on “Rivals or Relatives? From Sophistic Antilogic to Platonic Dialectic.”

Abstract:

The story of Greek philosophy is much more dialogical and inclusive than the dominant narratives often suggest. This is true even when it comes to one of the most notorious rivalries of the classical period: the rivalry between Plato and the sophists. Initially, Plato appears to offer an unflattering portrayal of the sophists, suggesting a simple contrast between the methods we should pursue and those we should avoid. On one common interpretation, this is because the sophists simply care about power and persuasion, whereas Plato values truth above all else. On another, Plato is overly optimistic about the power of human reason, while the sophists appropriately contextualize our own abilities and recognize the mediating role of human constructs. These contrasts, however, project contemporary debates onto what scholars have perceived as their ancient counterparts. Focusing instead on methodological similarities reveals that both form a single family of inquiry, one that suggests a series of productive connections and a broader conversation about how to inquire effectively.

All are invited to attend the Tea at 4 p.m. in the Quita Woodward Room, Old Library.

The weekly Classics Colloquium provides an informal meeting ground for the College's lively community of undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty who are interested in classical subjects. Each year, the series brings to campus a number of distinguished speakers on a variety of literary, archaeological, and historical subjects.

GrEek, Latin, and Classical Studies