The Introduction

 Platohagel: Consider the following paragraph. 

“In philosophy, transcendence is the basic ground concept from the word’s literal meaning (from Latin), of climbing or going beyond, albeit with varying connotations in its different historical and cultural stages. It includes philosophies, systems, and approaches that describe the fundamental structures of being, not as an ontology (theory of being), but as the framework of emergence and validation of knowledge of being.”

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcendence_(philosophy)

Socrates: A profound exploration of transcendence, indeed. The idea of transcending, climbing beyond the literal sense, resonates with the philosophical pursuit of understanding the fundamental structures of being. In this context, it seems to emphasize a departure from a mere theory of being and, instead, focuses on the framework through which knowledge of being emerges and finds validation. How do you perceive this notion aligning with our discussion on the knowledge of the good and the virtuous person?

Platohagel: Our introduction that had been prepared, must somehow contain this explanation.

Socrates: As we embark on this philosophical journey, let the words on the introduction page guide the reader’s contemplation:

“Welcome, seeker of virtue, to a path illuminated by wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice. This journey unfolds within the sacred geometry of a Mandala, symbolizing the interconnectedness of virtues and the pursuit of a harmonious existence. As Socrates once pondered, let us explore the essence of a virtuous life, inviting introspection and a quest for the sublime. May these pages be a companion on your transformative odyssey toward becoming a virtuous person, a seeker of truth and goodness.”

“In this philosophical journey, let the seeker be aware that the pursuit of virtue is intertwined with the transcendence of the good. As Socrates contemplated, we invite introspection into the fundamental structures of being, recognizing the emergence and validation of knowledge of the good. Within the sacred geometry of the Mandala, let the seeker navigate not only the interconnected virtues but also the transcendent realm that shapes the essence of a virtuous life. May these pages serve as a guide on the transformative odyssey towards a harmonious existence, seeking the sublime truths of goodness beyond the immediate.”

Introduction

Socrates: Your introduction is a poetic invitation to the reader, invoking the virtues of wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice within the sacred geometry of a Mandala. It beautifully sets the stage for a contemplative journey, echoing the spirit of Socratic inquiry. As we explore the essence of virtue, may these words guide the seeker on a transformative odyssey toward the sublime pursuit of truth and goodness.

Platohagel: The Mandala has to exist as an innate discription of what emerges from each and every individual, and serves as the unique geometrical form, as various bullet points contained in the circle as each individual. Each and every individual expresses this unique capabilities of the transcendent?

Socrates: Indeed, Platohagel, your insight is profound. The Mandala, symbolizing the interconnected virtues, can also serve as a unique geometrical form for each individual. Within the circle, the various bullet points represent the distinct expressions of transcendent capabilities inherent in every person. Just as each individual contributes to the harmonious pattern of the Mandala, so too do they manifest their unique qualities, contributing to the emergence of the transcendent in their own way. This perspective enriches the contemplative journey towards virtue, acknowledging the diverse and intricate expressions of the transcendent within each seeker.

The Wholeness of the One

In this circular arrangement, each virtue influences and connects with its adjacent counterparts, emphasizing the interconnectedness of moral excellence, knowledge, and the foundation for a just society.

Socrates: Certainly, Platohagel. Here’s a simplified representation with the virtues arranged in a more circular manner:

 Science, and particularly geometry and astronomy/astrology, was linked directly to the divine for most medieval scholars. The compass in this 13th century manuscript is a symbol of God’s act of Creation. God has created the universe after geometric and harmonic principles, to seek these principles was therefore to seek and worship God. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circle#/media/File%3AGod_the_Geometer.jpg

Platohagel: In the ideal society Socrates, can the circle represent the One?

Socrates: Platohagel, in the pursuit of an ideal society, the circular representation can symbolize the unity and interconnectedness of virtues. Each virtue, like a point on the circle, contributes to the harmony and balance within the collective whole. It reflects the idea that moral excellence, knowledge, and the principles of a just society are interdependent facets that, when unified, create a cohesive and virtuous community.

Platohagel: While these virtues are represented as the ideal, the idea, is of the one?

Socrates: Indeed, Platohagel, the representation of these virtues in a unified circle reflects the concept of the One—the idea that the interconnected virtues collectively contribute to a harmonious and virtuous whole. In this symbolic circle, the virtues converge to embody a holistic vision of an ideal and just society.