Fato, fortuna e physis

i limiti della predestinazione nel concetto socratico di felicità

Abstract

Fate, fortune and physis. The limits of predestination in the Socratic notion of happiness

In my paper I aim to discuss the notions of fate (in a broad sense and in a narrow sense, as divine fate) and fortune in relation to human nature in the works of Plato and Xenophon, especially Xenophon’s Memorabilia. I shall argue that both Xenophon and Plato in particular present a peculiar mix of cognitive and non-cognitive elements (meaning cognitive states such as learning skills and non-cognitive such as a cosmic or divine destiny we are allotted to) that can potentially question a strict interpretation of Socratic intellectualism. I shall comment on Xenophon’s Memorabilia for the peculiar depiction of Socrates that he wants to offer (a pious Socrates who is not entirely a rationalist), and I shall comment on Plato’s Seventh Letter, the Meno, the Lysis and other works.