Classical Republicanism

What is the general definition of Classical Republicanism?

Rooted in Ancient Greece and Rome, it emphasizes putting the public interest ahead of private interest. Emphasizes civic virtue

What virtues are important in Classical Republicanism?

Private virtues like frugality and industry, but they can lead to excessive self-focus.

How do the demands of Classical Republican societies differ from monarchies?

Classical Republican societies require citizens to act morally and put aside personal interests voluntarily, unlike monarchies where coercion is common.

What significant change in power occurred in the Greek Polis from the 7th to 5th centuries BC?

Authority shifted from patriarchs and nobles to the political community of citizens.

What became the primary loyalty of citizens in the Greek Polis?

Loyalty to the state, which replaced kinship ties.

Who was Cleisthenes and what was his contribution to Athenian democracy?

An Athenian aristocrat who implemented democratic reforms, granting citizenship to propertyless artisans and sailors.

What did Pericles emphasize in his Funeral Oration?

The glories of a free, tolerant, democratic Athens that values diverse voices.

What was the highest purpose of the polis according to Classical Republicanism?

Creating a just political order that aligns with a shared vision of the good life.

How did Plato view justice in 'The Republic'?

He examined justice and argued that failing to act justly harms one's soul. Justice has rational order, with each part performing it’s appropriate role. 

What forms of government did Plato analyze in 'The Republic'?

Timocracy, Oligarchy, Democracy, and Tyranny.

What did Plato believe about democracy?

He viewed it as inherently unjust, leading to disorder due to excessive liberty.

What is Plato's ideal form of government?

Aristocracy, ruled by the best, with a Philosopher King.

What was Aristotle's stance on Plato's ideal state?

He disagreed, believing that different classes would lead to conflict and that practical governance was necessary.

What are the three true forms of government identified by Aristotle?

Monarchy, Aristocracy, and Polity.

What did Cicero believe about the purpose of the state?

The state exists for ethical purposes and is a common property of its members.

What is Cicero's view on liberty?

Liberty for some is not true liberty; it must be for all.

What was Cicero's stance on justice?

Justice is essential for the commonwealth to function and is defined as giving each their due.

What did Cicero advocate for in terms of government structure?

A mixed government that combines elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.

What are the four virtues Cicero promoted?

Wisdom, justice, greatness of spirit, and decorum.

What is the significance of the public good in the Greco-Roman tradition?

It is a fundamental idea about the purpose of the state, emphasizing the collective interest.

How does Classical Republicanism view civic virtue?

It emphasizes dedication to the community and prioritizing community interests over individual interests.

What is the role of citizens in Classical Republicanism?

All citizens should participate fully to promote the common good and maintain community values.

What does Classical Republicanism say about limiting personal freedoms?

It is acceptable to limit expression and privacy if it opposes the common good.

What is the overarching goal of humans living together in Classical Republicanism?

To create and carry out a common view of justice and morality for the political community.

What did Aristotle believe about the polis?

It raises humans above the beast by subjecting members to rules of justice.

What did Plato's myth of metals symbolize?

It suggested that social cohesion is more important than the actual truth of one's nature.