In pursuit of piety: A translation and interpretation of Plato's "Euthyphro"
Item
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Title
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In pursuit of piety: A translation and interpretation of Plato's "Euthyphro"
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Identifier
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AAI3115245
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identifier
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3115245
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Creator
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Eckert, Maureen A.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Steven M. Cahn
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Date
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2004
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Philosophy
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Abstract
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This dissertation presents a new translation of Plato's Euthyphro that emphasizes the literary qualities of the dialogue and also clarifies controversial philosophical passages. The translation assists a holistic interpretation of the dialogue. Main features of the commentary include attention to Euthyphro's case at the start of the dialogue. Its significance is intertwined with the whole of the work, as Euthyphro's case exemplifies a dilemma already present in Athenian religious thinking. This case intensifies the need to discover a standard notion of piety against which any innovation about the gods---the charge of impiety against Socrates---can be decided. I defend a causal interpretation of the Euthyphro Dilemma, which succeeds when the ancient Greek is carefully translated, and then show how this dilemma sets the stage for a definition of piety that can succeed. The dialogue's fourth definition of piety as service (hypertike) to the gods appears again in the Apology as the way in which Socrates describes and defends his philosophical mission. I examine the structure of this proposed definition and relate it to the comments found in the Apology. I propose that the Delphic Dictum, "Know Thyself," is the task with which humans serve the gods, and this notion best accounts for Socratic Piety. Moreover, if Socratic Piety regards the Delphic commandment, Socrates' view of piety is less innovative than might appear. Pious actions are situated within a religious context that respects the gods and also the gulf between human and divine wisdom.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
