Plato studied under Socrates and was Aristotle's teacher. Together these three Greeks developed the basis of philosophical thinking for the entire Western world. Plato was also a writer, mathematician, and founder of the Academy in Athens, which was the first university in Europe. This dialogue is between Socrates, Gorgias, Polus and Callicles. Callicles believes that might is right. Gorgias argues that oratory and the power to persuade represent "the greatest good." Socrates argues that the responsibility of a politician is to serve his people. Insights can be gained into how classical...

An unabridged edition with introduction for study: Plato can do with words just as he pleases; to him they are indeed 'more plastic than wax' (Republic). We are in the habit of opposing speech and writing, poetry and prose. But he has discovered a use of language in which they are united; which gives a fitting expression to the highest truths; and in which the trifles of courtesy and the familiarities of daily life are not overlooked.