About the book
The most widely accepted view in the West today, particularly among postmodernists, is that Plato attempted to ground politics on a rational metaphysics and initiated the tradition of foundationalism that has given rise to systems of oppression ranging from racism, sexism, and ethnocentrism to the technological mastery of the earth. Metaphysics as Rhetoric controverts this view, arguing that Plato was not the originator of this metaphysical tradition. Using as a basis the tenth-century Muslim philosopher Alfarabi's interpretation of Plato, especially his Summary of Plato's \"Laws\", Parens shows that what appears to be Plato's metaphysics was intended as a rhetorical defense of his politics. Parens demonstrates that rather than seek to establish politics on the definitive metaphysical ground, Alfarabi's Plato analyzes politics on its own terms, phenomenologically.
Editions of Metaphysics as Rhetoric
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780791425732
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780791425749
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438415499
Read an Excerpt
The most widely accepted view in the West today, particularly among postmodernists, is that Plato attempted to ground politics on a rational metaphysics and initiated the tradition of foundationalism that has given rise to systems of oppression ranging from racism, sexism, and ethnocentrism to the technological mastery of the earth. Metaphysics as Rhetoric controverts this view, arguing that Plato was not the originator of this metaphysical tradition. Using as a basis the tenth-century Muslim philosopher Alfarabi's interpretation of Plato, especially his Summary of Plato's \"Laws\", Parens shows that what appears to be Plato's metaphysics was intended as a rhetorical defense of his politics. Parens demonstrates that rather than seek to establish politics on the definitive metaphysical ground, Alfarabi's Plato analyzes politics on its own terms, phenomenologically.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metaphysics as Rhetoric about?
The most widely accepted view in the West today, particularly among postmodernists, is that Plato attempted to ground politics on a rational metaphysics and initiated the tradition of foundationalism that has given rise to systems of oppression ranging from racism, sexism, and ethnocentrism to the technological mastery of the earth. Metaphysics as Rhetoric controverts this view, arguing that Plato was not the originator of this metaphysical tradition. Using as a basis the tenth-century Muslim philosopher Alfarabi's interpretation of Plato, especially his Summary of Plato's \"Laws\", Parens shows that what appears to be Plato's metaphysics was intended as a rhetorical defense of his politics. Parens demonstrates that rather than seek to establish politics on the definitive metaphysical ground, Alfarabi's Plato analyzes politics on its own terms, phenomenologically.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Metaphysics as Rhetoric?
History and Archaeology > History > Middle Eastern history
Where can I read a sample of Metaphysics as Rhetoric?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791425732
How long is Metaphysics as Rhetoric and how many pages does it have?
Metaphysics as Rhetoric has 195 page(s)
Is Metaphysics as Rhetoric part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Middle Eastern Studies
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Metaphysics as Rhetoric?
Joshua Parens
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Metaphysics as Rhetoric is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791425732) and paperback(ISBN 9780791425749) and pdf(ISBN 9781438415499)
Where can I buy Metaphysics as Rhetoric online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy Metaphysics as Rhetoric?