“It is clear to everyone that astronomy at all events compels the soul to look upwards, and draws it from the things of this world to the other.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
Quote
“It is clear to everyone that astronomy at all events compels the soul to look upwards, and draws it from the things of this world to the other.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato reflects on the transformative power of astronomy and how it elevates the soul. By studying the heavens and the cosmos, a person is compelled to shift their focus from the immediate concerns of the material world to the eternal, transcendent truths of the universe. Astronomy, in Plato’s view, is not just a scientific discipline but a philosophical and spiritual pursuit that leads the soul to contemplate higher realities. It pulls the individual away from earthly distractions and toward a deeper understanding of the divine order, inspiring awe and wonder at the vastness of the cosmos and the underlying harmony of the universe.
This idea connects to Plato’s Theory of Forms, where he proposes that the physical world is a mere shadow of the higher, unchanging truths that can only be understood through philosophical contemplation. For Plato, the study of the cosmos—particularly astronomy—was a way to align the soul with these higher truths and encourage the pursuit of wisdom and virtue. The study of the heavens draws the soul away from materialism and directs it toward a higher form of knowledge, one that is more aligned with the divine and the eternal.
In modern terms, this quote can be seen as a reminder of how the pursuit of knowledge—especially in fields like astronomy and science—can have a profound effect on our perspective and spiritual growth. Just as ancient astronomers looked to the stars to understand the universe, we are encouraged to look beyond the everyday distractions of life and seek understanding that connects us to something greater than ourselves. Astronomy, as Plato suggests, is a tool for both intellectual and spiritual enlightenment, helping us to see our place in the vast, mysterious universe.
