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Initiating Inquiry In Plato’s Meno

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Published/Copyright: August 7, 2025
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Abstract

This article focuses on the first part of Meno’s paradox, i.e. on the problem of initiating inquiry. I argue that the Platonic concept of inquiry (ζήτησις), unlike our modern notion, encompasses a process of deep transformation at the intellectual, ethical, and desiderative levels. However, the Socratic elenchus alone is insufficient to initiate inquiry; recollection is needed as well.

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Published Online: 2025-08-07
Published in Print: 2025-08-05

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