Understanding Plato's Republic

Understanding Plato’s Republic is an accessible introduction to the concepts of justice that inform Plato’s Republic, elucidating the ancient philosopher's main argument that we would be better off leading just lives rather than unjust ones

Provides a much needed up to date discussion of The Republic's fundamental ideas and Plato's main argument
Discusses the unity and coherence of The Republic as a whole
Written in a lively style, informed by over 50 years of teaching experience
Reveals rich insights into a timeless classic that holds remarkable relevance to the modern world

From the Back Cover
Plato is one of the most influential authors in the history of ideas and his best known work, The Republic -- written in his familiar form of dialogue -- is widely regarded as a cornerstone of Western philosophy. Understanding Plato’s Republic provides readers with an accessible introduction to the concepts of justice that inform Plato’s masterwork, carefully explicating his main argument that we would be better off leading just lives rather than unjust ones. The book examines the basic ideas Plato uses to build up his theory of justice: his theories of forms, function and virtue; his psychology; his analogy between just society and a just person; and the knowledge of good that Plato deemed necessary for governing well. Also discussed are consequences of Plato's theory of justice, such as the equality of women and his criticisms of democracy. The book concludes with an insightful discussion of Plato’s passionate defense of his ideals of a good and just society and a just person.

Informed by over 50 years of teaching experience, Santas’ lively and engaging writing style makes The Republic accessible to all while remaining faithful to dialogue’s philosophical complexity. Understanding Plato's Republic reveals rich insights into a timeless classic that holds remarkable relevance to the modern world.

Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell (May 3, 2010)
Language: English