Plato at the Googleplex

by Rebecca Goldstein
Plato at the Googleplex cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical:
  • ID: 256
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2025-09-06
  • ISBN: 9781782395584
  • Publisher: Atlantic Books Ltd
  • Published: 2014-07-03
  • Reviews: 4

In "Plato at the Googleplex," acclaimed philosopher and novelist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein brings Plato into the twenty-first century, exploring how his ancient philosophical questions resonate in modern contexts such as technology, morality, and politics. Through imaginative dialogues and a multi-city speaking tour, Plato debates topics ranging from raising children to the nature of knowledge in an age of crowd-sourcing, highlighting the ongoing relevance of philosophical inquiry in understanding today’s complex world. Goldstein combines scholarly rigor with wit and narrative skill, showing that philosophy is not obsolete but essential for grappling with issues in religion, science, and society. The book reveals how Plato’s method of questioning remains a powerful tool for challenging assumptions and deepening our understanding, making philosophy indispensable in contemporary debates and everyday life.

Reviews
complete-review.com · Unknown · 2025-09-18
critical 3.00

Susan Jacoby criticizes the dismissive tone towards Rebecca Newberger Goldstein's work, arguing that her book on Plato is not merely a 'love letter' but a serious philosophical exploration. Another reader finds Anthony Gottlieb's review more focused on his own intellectual prowess than on Goldstein's achievements.

Susan Jacoby takes issue with the review of Rebecca Newberger Goldstein's 'Plato at the Googleplex,' particularly the dismissive tone towards Goldstein's work. She argues that describing Goldstein's book as a 'love letter' to Plato undermines the seriousness of her philosophical exploration. Jacoby also expresses her own frustration with Plato, admitting that Goldstein's lively portrayal of the philosopher has compelled her to revisit his works. Another reader, while acknowledging Gottlieb's intellectual gifts, finds his review more focused on showcasing his own knowledge rather than adequately recognizing Goldstein's accomplishments. They highlight her numerous honors and achievements, suggesting that Gottlieb's review does not do justice to her contributions as a philosopher.

Quick quotes

    She regards? If Plato is not generally regarded as the founder of Western philosophy, perhaps there is also some question about whether Jews are regarded as the authors of the Torah.

    Unlike my friend Rebecca Goldstein, I have always found Plato tedious, and I am irritated at her for making him sound so lively and alive that I must now struggle out of my cave and reread what I thought I had left behind forever in college.

    Who writes love letters? Why, smitten women, of course. (Men write admiring tomes.)

nytimes.com · Unknown · 2014-05-01
audacious 4.50

Rebecca Newberger Goldstein's 'Plato at the Googleplex' brings the ancient philosopher into modern debates, showcasing his enduring relevance. The book blends historical context with imagined dialogues, highlighting Plato's methodologies and the importance of questioning societal norms.

Rebecca Newberger Goldstein's 'Plato at the Googleplex' is an audacious and brainy book that resurrects the Greek philosopher Plato and places him in contemporary settings. The book alternates between a serious chronicle of Plato's life and philosophy and a series of imagined dialogues between Plato and modern figures like Bill O'Reilly and Google engineers. Goldstein makes a compelling case for the continuing importance of philosophy as Plato conceived it, emphasizing his questions and methodologies over his specific proposals. The book also delves into the formative event of Socrates' trial and death, which Goldstein portrays as a pivotal moment in Plato's life. Through these explorations, Goldstein argues that Plato's critical attitude and his insight that our senses can deceive us have had a profound impact on the scientific mentality and continue to be relevant today.

Quick quotes

    Plato’s own views are elusive because he never wrote in his own voice, only through characters speaking in dialogue.

    Goldstein makes a plea for the continuing importance of philosophy as Plato conceived it, and for the enduring relevance of Plato’s contributions.

    Socrates was tolerated (barely) when times were good, but condemned as a dangerous nuisance when things took a turn for the worse.

washingtonpost.com · Unknown · 2014-04-02
engaging 4.50

The reviewer found the book's imaginative approach to philosophy engaging, though the fictional chapters occasionally wore thin. Goldstein's ability to make Plato relevant in modern contexts was praised, with her writing described as exhilarating and commanding.

The reviewer appreciated Rebecca Newberger Goldstein's creative approach in Plato at the Googleplex, which brings the ancient philosopher into contemporary settings through fictional dialogues. While the technique of using fictional encounters sometimes felt contrived, the reviewer found Goldstein's explanations of Plato's ideas to be both exhilarating and authoritative. The book successfully showcases the enduring relevance of Plato's philosophy, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. The reviewer noted that Goldstein's writing is lively and direct, though it can occasionally become discursive. Overall, the book was seen as a remarkable achievement in making philosophy accessible and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    Goldstein blows up the model of standard-issue philosophical treatises with her imaginative approach.

    Her character is recognizably the real thing — or rather, a plausible reconstruction of his mouthpiece, Socrates.

    Goldstein writes with verve and directness.

slate.com · Unknown · 2014-03-03
thought-provoking 4.00

Rebecca Goldstein's 'Plato at the Googleplex' brings the ancient philosopher into modern times, exploring his relevance to contemporary life. The reviewer appreciates the intellectual depth and humor in the book, though they note it may be challenging for those not well-versed in philosophy.

Rebecca Goldstein's 'Plato at the Googleplex' is a fascinating exploration of how the ancient philosopher might navigate and interact with modern life. The reviewer praises Goldstein's ability to blend philosophical depth with humor, making complex ideas accessible. They particularly enjoy the imaginative scenarios where Plato engages with contemporary issues, though they acknowledge that the book might be more appealing to those already familiar with philosophy. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and engaging, highlighting Goldstein's skill in bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern thought.

Quick quotes

    Goldstein's imaginative scenarios where Plato engages with contemporary issues are both insightful and entertaining.

    The book is a testament to Goldstein's ability to make complex philosophical ideas accessible and relevant.

    While the book may be challenging for those not well-versed in philosophy, it offers a unique and engaging perspective on Plato's enduring relevance.

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