[MichalSternik]

This. Perhaps i'm biased, since i'm supposed to graduate from philosophy department this year, but i do think that reading ancient philosophy (Plato & Aristotle are the most representative example of what was going on there) is the best way to think better -- and get in touch with origins of European culture.

My recommendations, apart from "Sophist" (which is a difficult, very technical dialogue regarding problems with platos theory of ideas) would be "Nicomachean Ethics" (Joe Sachs' translation), "Philebus", "Phaedrus", and of course "The Republic", Platos' magnum opus.

[MistahKoala]

> "Sophist" (which is a difficult, very technical dialogue regarding problems with platos theory of ideas)

For the general lay reader, is there a more accessible equivalent you can recommend?

[MichalSternik]

I would start with Philebus. It is considered a pretty late dialogue, so problems with theory of ideals are considered (and musical metaphors play a prominent role). Also, its topic is worthy; Socrates & Protarchus discuss a role that pleasure and reason play in furhishing a good life.

[MistahKoala]

Thanks for the recommendation - I'll have a look for it.

[GGfpc]

Which is the easiest to start with?