What is Plato’s real name?

Plato, one of the greatest philosophers of antiquity, is mainly known by this name, but his real birth name was Aristocles (Ἀριστοκλῆς in ancient Greek). According to several historical sources, the nickname “Plato” (Πλάτων) was later attributed to him, either because of the width of his forehead, his physical robustness or in reference to his broad, deep writing style.

There are several theories as to why Aristocles was nicknamed Plato. One of the most popular is that he had a particularly broad forehead, which in ancient Greece could be associated with great intelligence. Another hypothesis is that he was an accomplished wrestler, and that his imposing physique earned him the nickname. Finally, some scholars suggest that his name refers to the breadth of his ideas and philosophical thought, which had a profound impact on the Western intellectual tradition.

Plato was born around 427 BC in Athens, or on the island of Aegina, into an aristocratic family. He received a meticulous education, studying gymnastics, music and mathematics, fundamental disciplines in the training of young Greeks from good families. He was also influenced by Socrates, of whom he became one of the most famous disciples. This relationship had a major impact on his thinking, so much so that after Socrates’ death in 399 BC, Plato devoted himself entirely to philosophy.

Plato is famous for having founded the Academy of Athens, often considered the first university in history. His writings, mainly philosophical dialogues, cover subjects as diverse as justice, ethics, politics, metaphysics and knowledge. His major works include:

• Republic, in which he develops his vision of an ideal city governed by philosopher kings;
• Symposium, which explores the nature of love;
• Phaedo, which deals with the immortality of the soul;
• Timaeus, an influential cosmology.

Plato is considered one of the founders of Western philosophy. His influence is immense, not only in antiquity, but also in the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and even today. He laid the foundations for many philosophical disciplines, and influenced other great thinkers such as Aristotle, his pupil, as well as modern figures like Descartes, Kant and Nietzsche.

His real name, Aristocles, although little known, is a reminder that behind this famous nickname lies a man whose ideas have spanned the centuries and shaped human thought.

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