Plato

Plato was an ancient Greek philosopher. He was born in Athens around 428 BC. He was a student of Socrates and a teacher of Aristotle. He founded the Academy, one of the first universities in the Western world.

Early Life

Plato was born into a wealthy family in Athens. He was a good athlete and may have been a wrestler. He became a devoted student of Socrates. After Socrates was put to death, Plato decided to devote his life to philosophy.

An ancient marble bust of the Greek thinker Plato's teacher.
An ancient marble bust of the Greek thinker Plato's teacher. (Copy of Lysippos (?) / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Plato founded the Academy in Athens, which lasted for over 900 years. He wrote dialogues about justice, beauty, truth, and government. His most famous work is The Republic, which describes an ideal society. His ideas shaped philosophy, science, and politics for thousands of years.

Fun Facts

  • Plato's real name may have been Aristocles. Plato was a nickname meaning broad.
  • His Academy lasted for about 900 years.
  • He used the character of Socrates in most of his writings.

Did You Know?

Plato believed there was a perfect version of everything in a world of ideal forms. For example, every circle we draw is an imperfect copy of a perfect circle that exists in the world of forms. This idea still influences philosophy today.