Plato, Socrates, and the Foundations of Political Philosophy: Dialectic, Nature vs Convention, and the Republic (copy)

Socratic Method

A pedagogical technique that uses guided questioning to help students uncover their own knowledge.

Forms (Plato/Socrates)

Universal, unchanging essences that underlie particular things, organizing and classifying knowledge.

Dialectic Method

The process of posing questions and guiding students through their answers to access fundamental truths.

Convention

Moral and ethical decisions made by groups, reflecting cultural relativism.

Nature

Universal natural laws that provide harmony and order to the universe.

Happiness (Plato)

Defined as alignment with universal truths and knowledge (H = K).

Justice (Plato)

Making decisions for the common good, prioritizing collective welfare over personal desires.

Tripartite State Structure

Plato's division of society into three classes: artisans, warriors, and rulers, each with their corresponding virtues.

Philosopher-King

The ideal ruler who governs based on wisdom and knowledge rather than a desire for power.

Virtue

Excellence in a particular domain, through which individuals attain happiness.

Education's Role in Politics

Plato believed education is essential for unlocking personal and societal harmony and justice.

Temperance (Artisans)

Restraint and moderation in pursuing wealth and personal ambition, ensuring economic stability.

Courage (Warriors)

Disciplined bravery necessary to defend the state, balancing fear and recklessness.

Wisdom (Rulers)

The hardest virtue to attain, essential for governance based on knowledge of the good.

Caveat (Plato)

Not everyone can attain wisdom; society requires different roles based on natural abilities.

Natural Law

The belief in universal laws that govern ethical behavior and political organization.

The Republic

Plato's work that presents a normative model of governance and justice, emphasizing education.

Interdisciplinary Approach

A method that synthesizes different fields (ethics, psychology, economics) to address complex political issues.

Modern vs. Classical Political Philosophy

Modern thinkers may emphasize conventions, while classical thinkers like Plato focused on aligning with nature and universal truths.