PLATO: Theaetetus

In the Theaetetus, Plato investigates the nature of knowledge. The interlocutors of this dialogue are Socrates and two mathematicians – Theaetetus and Theodorus. Theaetetus tells Socrates that the various arts and sciences – geometry, astronomy, the art of cobbling, etc. – constitute knowledge. Socrates refutes Theaetetus’ argument by demonstrating that Theaetetus has merely provided examples of knowledge. If Socrates asked, “What is color?” and Theaetetus replied, “Color is red, blue, orange, etc.” his answer is clearly inadequate. Socrates seeks a precise definition of what these various types of knowledge have in common.