Course: An introduction to Plato's Republic
Course 1: Why study Plato's Republic?
Professor: Jonathan Culp, Ph.D., Director of International Studies and Associate Professor, University of Dallas
Course Description:
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to Socratic-Platonic political philosophy through careful study of Plato's most comprehensive work, the Republic. Commonly known as a book describing a political utopia, Plato's Republic is actually a comprehensive reflection on the nature of the human soul, its desire for justice, and its place in the whole. The Republic is also complex, elusive and often scandalous. As we read The Republic, we will examine many of the crucial questions it poses: What is justice? Is it good to be fair? What is the best form of government? the best education? the best way of life? What are the obstacles that stand in the way of these things? What is truth and how to find it? We will read the Republic slowly and carefully and contemplate Plato's answers to these questions.
Class 1:
This lesson serves as an introduction to the course as a whole. First, Dr. Culp offers an answer to the question “Why study Plato’s Republic?” » He then provides some historical information regarding the lives of Socrates and Plato and their significance. Next, he discusses the particular meaning of the book's title: the Republic, or Politeia in Greek. Finally, Dr. Culp explains the particular way in which he interprets the Platonic dialogues.
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