Should I read the republic first?

I recommend reading them in the (chronological) order in which you have listed them. This for two reasons linked to your rider, ‘to better understand the development of political philosophy’. Aristotle critiques Plato’s Republic in Politics, II, and elsewhere.

Is the republic good for beginners?

Plato’s “Republic” is as good a place as any to start. However, I find that my mind is better prepared for a deeper understanding if I read a summary of a philosopher’s text. This prepares me to better understand what a philosopher has written or thought.

Is Republic a good read?

Plato’s ‘Republic’ Still Influential, Author Says The dialogues of Plato’s The Republic are regarded as the first great texts on political and moral theory. Philosopher Simon Blackburn has written a new book about The Republic, gently reminding those of us who have forgotten why it remains so important.

What is Plato’s most famous book?

The Republic is Plato’s best-known work and one of the foundational documents of Western philosophy and culture. Topics covered: justice, politics, the soul, the Allegory of the Cave, poets, philosopher-kings.

What does Plato say about education in the Republic?

Although Plato’s Republic is best known for its definitive defense of justice, it also includes an equally powerful defense of philosophical education. Plato’s beliefs on education, however, are difficult to discern because of the intricacies of the dialogue.

What is the most explicit account of Education in Plato’s just city?

The most explicit account of education arises after Glaucon questions the moderate and plain lifestyle required in Socrates’ just city “of speech” (369a). Caught up in the fun of imagining the ideal city, Glaucon cannot fathom that it would be as austere as Socrates suggests and desires that it be more luxurious.

How does Socrates use the Republic to reflect on politics?

Yet because Socrates links his discussion of personal justice to an account of justice in the city and makes claims about how good and bad cities are arranged, the Republic sustains reflections on political questions, as well. Not that ethics and politics exhaust the concerns of the Republic.