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Author : Plato

Plato, originally named Aristocles (c. 427 – 348 BC), was a pivotal ancient Greek philosopher of the Classical era, recognized as a foundational figure in Western thought and an innovator of the dialogue and dialectic forms. As the founder of the Platonic Academy in Athens, he advanced key ideas in both theoretical and practical philosophy, most notably the theory of forms, which addresses the problem of universals. Influenced by pre-Socratic thinkers like Pythagoras, Heraclitus, and Parmenides, much of our understanding of these figures comes from his writings. Alongside Socrates, his mentor, and Aristotle, his student, Plato remains a central figure in the history of philosophy. His works have survived largely intact for over 2,400 years and continue to be studied and revered, shaping not only Western philosophy but also influencing Christian and Islamic thought through Neoplatonism. Alfred North Whitehead aptly noted that European philosophy can be seen as a series of footnotes to Plato, highlighting his enduring impact.