What are you going to work with at IFIKK?
I will work on an independent doctoral project in the field of ancient Greek philosophy. Specifically, my dissertation will center on one of Plato's dialogues, the Euthydemus. In this text, Plato contrasts Socrates' conversational method, known as the elenchus, with that of two sophists named Euthydemus and Dionysodorus. Their argumentation, which Socrates characterizes as 'the eristic technique', employs various forms of fallacious reasoning aimed at compelling their interlocutor to make absurd statements, ultimately securing a victory.
Scholars who have worked on the eristic exchanges within the dialogue have predominantly concentrated on their implications for the history of logic and Plato's own formal reasoning abilities. Consequently, existing research is focused on the problematic aspects of the eristic technique, the logical errors it entails and the ethical difficulties that arise from this type of competitive argumentation. In my dissertation, I would like to offer an alternative interpretation of the dialogue, emphasizing that Plato depicts Euthydemus and Dionysodorus not merely as malevolent and foolish tricksters but also as successful performers, instructors in language and argumentation, and potential allies of philosophy against pretentious intellectuals. The aim of my dissertation lies in assessing the potential that Plato perceives in the practice and knowledge of eristics for the advancement of philosophy.
Can you tell us a bit about your research interests?
My primary area of interest revolves around comprehending how Plato and other thinkers of his era conceptualized the object of philosophy and their perspectives on its attainment. In other words, I am chiefly concerned with ontological, epistemological, and methodological questions when I engage with ancient philosophical texts. Additionally, I hold an interest in the reception of these concepts in the Middle Ages, particularly when it comes to the notion of truth and on the influence of ancient thought upon the philosophy of the 19th and 20th century. On a more systematic level, I’m also interested in theory of art and aesthetics.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Having recently relocated to Oslo, I spend most of my free time exploring the city and its surrounding nature on long walks. I like the outdoors in general and with the Norwegian winter approaching, I’m looking forward to learn cross-country skiing. Apart from that, I like to read (recently a lot of ancient drama, travel reports and 20th-century American fiction) and write (letters, journal entries and small stories).