Discuss Plato’s understanding of philosophy and of its relationship with politics, as described in The Republic. How does the Allegory of the Cave demonstrate the essence of the philosophical experience? Why, according to Socrates, is the philosopher particularly qualified to rule over others?
Would the Philosopher King be likely to make authoritarian/harsh laws or edicts (for example, the law made by Creon – in Antigone – forbidding the burial of Polyneices) or not? Why, or why not?
What is the likelihood that the rule of a Philosopher King would succeed and endure in the real world, according to Socrates? Why?
Do you agree, or not? Give reasons for your answer.