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PlatoThe Republic
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Index of Terms
Cynic
A position represented by the character of Thrasymachus. In the context of The Republic, it is the view that morality is merely the glorified self-interest of weaker people.
Dialectic
A method of discussion aimed at establishing truth through the clarification of ideas. The interlocutor in a dialogue is a partner in a common endeavour rather than an opponent.
Eristic
The opposite of the dialectic method. Instead of aiming at mutual understanding the goal is the refutation and defeat of one’s interlocutor.
Guardians
The caste of people in Plato’s ideal community tasked with defending society against external threats. These are divided into “rulers” and “auxiliaries.”
Philosopher kings
Philosophers who govern or kings who become philosophers. In The Republic, they have the role of founding the ideal community and establishing its constitution and its laws.
Socratic or elenctic method
The philosophical method employed by Socrates in The Republic. Namely, one of questions and responses, progressing towards increasingly more sound ideas or theories.
The cave
The third and final of the analogies Socrates uses to demonstrate the meaning of “the good” and of the human condition. In it, Socrates describes how most people spend their lives watching shadows cast on a cave wall rather than observing objects directly in the daylight.
Related Titles
By Plato
