Plato was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived during the 5th century BCE. He was a student of Socrates and later taught Aristotle. Plato is known for his philosophical works, which are considered to be of unparalleled influence. He founded the Academy, which is considered to be the first Western university. Plato wrote at least 25 philosophical texts, and his preferred form of expression was the dialogue. His works blend ethics, political philosophy, moral psychology, epistemology, and metaphysics into an interconnected and systematic philosophy. Platos most famous contribution is the theory of forms (or ideas), which has been interpreted as advancing a solution to what is now known as the problem of universals.

Platos philosophy has been studied extensively and has influenced many fields of study. He raised problems for what became all the major areas of both theoretical philosophy and practical philosophy. Platos conception of many specific areas of philosophy has found itself newly relevant over and over again, and we are always rediscovering aspects of Platos work that demand new or clearer articulations.

Although the facts of Platos life are less often discussed and less well known than those of his mentor, Socrates, or of Aristotle, we do know that Plato was born into an aristocratic family in Athens. After the death of Socrates, Plato may have traveled extensively in Greece, Italy, and Egypt, though on such particulars the evidence is uncertain. According to the account given in Platos Seventh Letter, he first went to Italy and Sicily when he was "about forty". Platos early education took place primarily in Athens, and he was deeply influenced by Socratess ideas and philosophical approach.

In summary, Plato was an ancient Greek philosopher who wrote many philosophical texts, founded the Academy, and is considered to be one of the founders of Western philosophy. His works blend ethics, political philosophy, moral psychology, epistemology, and metaphysics into an interconnected and systematic philosophy.