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Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Aporia and Analogy: A New Hypothesis on the Mathematical Coherence of Plato's Divided Line (Republic 509d-511e)

Authors: Ullmann, Holger;

Aporia and Analogy: A New Hypothesis on the Mathematical Coherence of Plato's Divided Line (Republic 509d-511e)

Abstract

The sequence of Plato's three analogies (Sun, Line, Cave) in the Republic implies a unified system, yet its structure remains an unsolved aporia. This paper postulates a generative numerical "Symmetry Matrix" that functions as the "upper octave" of the Divided Line. It is the metaphysical reality—the complete Platonic doctrine of Principles and Ideas (One > Indefinite Dyad > Genus > Eidos)—which, as a unified system, is analogous to the Sun in the Sun Analogy. This four-part matrix forms the arithmetic core beneath the Gnomon, a complex coordinate system that contains the entire ancient Quadrivium. From this system, the exact proportions of the Divided Line, (1:2 // 2:4), are derived. The "lower octave" is the exact analogue: it begins where Plato's doctrine ends (at the world of Ideas) and casts its shadow over the graded system of the Line (Knowledge/Opinion), pointing towards the shadows in the subsequent Cave Allegory. The symbolic meaning of the Gnomon as a sundial's shadow-caster (the "Square" and "Diagonal" in Republic 510E) thus links all three analogies. This hypothesis resolves the aporias, provides the arithmetic core for the Gnomon, and proves that the entire ancient Quadrivium (Arithmetic, Geometry, Harmonics, Cosmology) is a single, unified system derived from the matrix's inherent properties.

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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