Plato's Phaedo: What is the Soul?

For this session, we'll read and discuss Plato's Phaedo. Phaedo is the last of the Platonic dialogues on the trial and execution of Socrates, Questions discussed in this dialogue include: What is the soul? How do we know that the soul is distinct from the body? Why should a true philosopher not fear death?

In addition to describing the nature of the soul, Phaedo provides an illustration and explanation of Plato's Theory of Forms, which reappears in other Platonic dialogues and later philosophical works.

You can use any translation or version of the dialogue you like (I'll be using the G.M.A Grube translation here). A free translation is available on Project Gutenberg:

Phaedo

Ground Rules:

1. All levels are welcome! Our discussion will not assume that you are familiar with Plato's other works, or with the writings of other philosophers.
2. Please complete the reading ahead of the discussion section. We will start the discussion assuming everyone has finished the reading and had some time to think about it.
3. We will focus on the reading for the first hour of the discussion. If you want to discuss other works or topics, please feel free to hang out and do so afterwards
4. Please show up on time for the discussion.
5. Be respectful, open, and curious!