The Trans-subjective Psyché and the Moral Art of Harmonisation: Another Look at Socrates

Abstract

In this study I show that the Socratic care of psyché addresses a trans-subjective dimension of life related to the totality, identifying the notion of a multidimensional kosmos tes psyches as a key concept of Socratic ethics. Therefore, I propose an original interpretation of the simultaneous unity and diversity of virtues, recognizing in Socrates’ areté an art that synergically articulates different incommensurable epistemai with a unitary dynamis of harmonization. After studying the Socratic notion of techné and highlighting its twofold practical dimension, I deal with the concept of intentional disposition of self-harmonization and finally develop some philosophical implications of a trans-subjective idea of self-regulation.