Several aspects of the concept of time in Plato and Aristotle

Abstract

This study presents a comparison of the conceptions of time found in Plato and Aristotle, with references to the thought of Martin Heidegger. Through textual analysis of key works such as Plato's "Timaeus" and Aristotle's "Physics," different perspectives on the nature and meaning of time in classical Greek philosophy are examined. Plato, in the aforementioned dialogue, describes time as a moving image of eternity, generated by the Demiurge when ordering the cosmos. In contrast, Aristotle addresses the aporias concerning the existence and nature of time in the "Physics," defining it as the number of motion according to what is earlier and later. Through critical analysis of these texts, it is revealed how both philosophers offer different yet complementary approaches to time, influencing subsequent philosophical thought. As suggested, the reception of Aristotle's conception of time is explored in Heidegger's work, who examines the vulgar concept of time as a measure of motion. This study contributes to understanding the various temporal conceptions in Western philosophy, employing textual analysis methodology to delve into the interpretation of the original texts