ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I examine Plato’s theory of moral education and the role dialogue plays in the cultivation of virtues in adults. Plato believes a well-crafted dialogue can help poorly raised adults become virtuous. I first briefly outline Plato’s insistence on the role of habits in the cultivation of virtue; next I examine Plato’s theory of dialogue found in the Seventh Letter and show why he believes dialogue can foster transformation; then I examine two paradigmatic Socratic dialogues that show Plato’s theory in action; finally, I conclude with a brief analysis of the relevance of Plato’s theory for contemporary moral education.
