DESCRIPTION

3 hour seminar | Sunday 19th Jan 2025 | 6-9pm (UK time) | £39

This seminar will provide an overview of the transmission of Platonic thought to the Islamic world. There will be a focus on key Islamic philosophers, including al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Ibn Rushd and Suhrawardi, and their adaption and expansion of Platonic ideas within an Islamic context.
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SEMINAR OUTLINE

Introduction to Pre-Socratic Thought

  • Context and Key Figures: Brief overview of Pre-Socratic thinkers like Pythagoras, Heraclitus, Parmenides, and Empedocles. Discuss the emphasis on metaphysical inquiries and the nature of reality, which laid the groundwork for Plato’s thought.

  • Influence of Mysticism and Mythology: Highlight the mystical elements in Pre-Socratic thought, especially as explored in Peter Kingsley’s work, which emphasizes figures like Parmenides and Empedocles as mystics and shamans, not just philosophers.

  • Cultural Cross-Pollination: Introduce Black Athena by Martin Bernal, which suggests that Greek philosophy was influenced by African and Near Eastern sources, sparking dialogue on the multicultural origins of Western thought—a theme relevant to later Islamic contributions.

Introduction to Plato and Platonic Thought

Core Concepts and link to Pre-Socratics: Describe Plato's continuation and transformation of Pre-Socratic ideas, such as the nature of reality, knowledge, and the soul, to provide a transition into Platonic metaphysics and epistemology.

The Transmission of Platonic Thought to the Islamic World

Cover the translation movement, key figures, and the integration of Greek and Hellenistic thought into the Islamic intellectual tradition

Key Islamic Philosophers and Platonic Thought

Focus on Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Ibn Rushd, and Suhrawardi, emphasizing how they adapted and expanded on Platonic ideas within an Islamic context.

Comparative Themes

Delve into the differences and similarities in epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, and mysticism, connecting back to Pre-Socratic influences where relevant.

TEACHER

Joshua Beneventi

Joshua Beneventi is the visionary founder of Mashraba, a global community bringing together creatives, professionals, and leaders united by the shared mission: bridging the wisdom of the past with the needs of the present to shape a future rooted in enduring values. As a coach and business professional specializing in operations, marketing, and strategy, Joshua blends intellectual depth with practical insight to deliver transformative solutions. Born in the United States with Iberian roots, his work reflects a lifelong commitment to exploring the transformative power of ideas to inspire growth and renewal. Mentored in Platonic thought from an early age, Joshua delves into the intersections of ancient philosophy and contemporary culture, with a particular focus on cultural evolution, personal development and intellectual inquiry. His approach is grounded in the timeless principles of Beauty, Truth, and Goodness - core values that guide both personal and collective flourishing. Through Mashraba and his broader initiatives, Joshua empowers individuals and communities to synthesize creativity, purpose, and action, paving a path toward a more meaningful and purposeful future.

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Discover the foundational teachings of Islam's intellectual tradition through insightful seminars taught by specialists in their fields.

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