Dualisme Et Metaxu Trois Usages De L’intermediaire Chez Platon

Abstract

This paper aims to offer a way of characterizing Plato’s dualism through his use of the intermediate {metaxu). There are three distinct uses of the metaxu : a) as an interval between two limits, b) as a median position between two extremes, and c) as a step towards a distinct and positive pole. The intermediate is that according to which the value of an interval or of an opposition can be justified as such, in order to have a better intelligibility of the realm of becoming.

Thumos and doxa as intermediates in the Republic

“…p. 122, where thumos is presented as "bond, medium and middle term". See also (Renaut 2014b) on which this conclusion is based. 9…”

“…For an extensive description of the argument, see (Cornford 1912;Stocks 1915;Hall 1963;Penner 1971;Renaut 2014a;Wilburn 2015). We should bear in mind that the autonomy of this part has been questioned by commentators for they see either an ad hoc argument to fit in the tripartite model of the city (Cornford), or that it is not clear whether thumos is distinct from reason and desire (Penner), as if its functions could be reduced to one or the other.…”