In Plato's “Parmenides,” the dialogue explores profound philosophical questions, primarily focusing on the nature of being and non-being. The character Parmenides presents a series of challenging arguments to Socrates, questioning the feasibility and coherence of the “Theory of Forms”. Parmenides argues that if something exists, it must be completely unified and unchanging. He suggests that a true being is a singular, undivided entity that cannot be differentiated, or subdivided. The dialogue contrasts the ideas of the Sophists, who often questioned the nature of truth and knowledge, with the more rigorous philosophical inquiry presented by Parmenides. Parmenides demonstrates the complexities and potential inconsistencies within the “Theory of Forms” prompting deeper reflection on the nature of reality and knowledge. The poem addresses human beliefs and perceptions, which Parmenides sees as unreliable. These perceptions suggest a reality of change and diversity, which he believes are illusions and do not reflect the true nature of Being. Sensory experiences are seen as deceptive, as they suggest a world of change and plurality, which contradicts the true nature of Being., Parmenides argues that reality is a single, unchanging entity, and any perception of change or diversity is illusory.
During the Classical era of ancient Greece, the philosopher Plato was born in Athens. He established the Academy, the first university on the European continent, as well as the Platonist school of philosophy. His interpretation of Plotinus had a significant impact on both Islam and Christianity. His theory of Forms, sometimes known as Platonism, is his most well-known contribution. He is also the inspiration for the Platonic solids and Platonic love. Plato was one of the most important figures in the ancient world, and his body of work is said to have persisted unaltered for more than 2,400 years. Even though little of his predecessors' writings have survived, it is believed that he had a significant impact on the works of Socrates, Heraclitus, Pythagoras, and Parmenides. On a tract of land in the Grove of Hecademus or Academus, a mythical Attic figure, Plato built it. The Academy remained in operation, until, Lucius Cornelius Sulla demolished it in 84 BC. Seneca claims that Plato passed away on the day of his birth at the age of 81. The Suda reports that he lived to be 82 years old, but Neanthes states that he was 84 years old. Tertullian said that Plato merely passed away, while sleeping. By will, Plato bequeathed his Iphistiadae land to a younger relative.
