‘Know Yourself' - as the First Step to HAPPINESS and Plato’s ‘First Alcibiades’

'Know Yourself’, Socrates tells young Alcibiades,
is the first step in living a ‘good’ and ‘happy’ life.

Details
After a short introduction to Plato and Socrates (for people new to this philosophy), we will look at Plato’s book ‘First Alcibiades' to help explain this ‘apparently’ easy idea of Know Yourself; which incidentally was one of the two main Delphi Maxims. While we may often know what the simple individual words and phrases a writer uses literally mean, sometimes the deeper meanings intended by the writer are less easy to understand and obvious.

Why was this short phrase so important to the ancient Greeks, that they carved it at the entrance to the temple of Apollo and Oracle at Delphi? And why was the phrase so important to Socrates, who discussed this subject with young Alcibiades more than 2,400 years ago? Socrates suggests that unless we know who, and ‘what’ we are – it will be difficult to choose the right path for ourselves - and look after ourselves as wisely as we can. As Plato writes:
'Where Wisdom Resides Nothing of Happiness is Wanting’ (Plato-
Euthydemus-280a)

No previous formal study of philosophy is needed to come along and enjoy this talk. However, more experienced philosophers are also welcome.

The talk is in English – but easy straight forward English is used – so non mother tongue speakers of English can feel confident about coming along.

Although the Meetup group has a large membership, the number of attendees at any one talk is usually between 8 and 20 people 'of all ages' – offering a small, relaxed and informal setting.

We will meet around 7.00 pm - in the pleasant Athens SafeStay Youth Hostel (formerly Athens Style) roof terrace bar/restaurant - and the talk starts promptly at 7.15 pm. The talk will last about 45 minutes, and there will be some relaxed time afterwards for questions and discussion about the points raised. We will finish around 8.30 / 8.45 pm.

VENUE DETAILS:
Meet in the pleasant Athens SafeStay (formerly Athens Style) roof terrace bar/restaurant around 7.00 pm ready for a prompt 7.15 pm start. (Please note, I am always interested to hear suggestions about good alternative venues for talks so that we do not use the same venues all the time.)

HOW TO FIND US
When you get to the Athens SafeStay hotel/hostel (near Monesteraki Metro at Agias Theklas 10, 10554 · Athens) go in and ask the reception staff to point you up to the roof terrace bar. When you get to the bar/restaurant ask for James – and let him know you have come for the talk.)

COST
In keeping with the Socratic tradition, this talk is offered FREE OF CHARGE for people who come along. (Small voluntary contributions afterwards are much appreciated to help out with the ongoing expenses of putting on talks and other activities - but there is no pressure to contribute.)

DRINKS / SNACKS etc can be purchased from the bar to enjoy with the talk “if you wish” – but again no pressure to buy anything.

NOTE - You may need to bring a jacket in case in gets a bit chilly later on.

UNABLE TO MAKE THE TALK?
Check Out James’ Philosophy Book – Chapter 1 is ‘Know Yourself’

NEW: James Audio Book Is Out Since Last Month – listen to FREE SAMPLE on Audible at: James Audio Book Sample on Audible
(Click 'sample' on this page.)