... role in the philosophical discourse. These dialogues seldom end with positive conclusions, although a premature version of the theory of forms is always presumed by Plato, as well as a moral standard that defines human good as wisdom and virtue (even if those things are hard to define), rather than ... the dialectic, the elenchus is a cross-examination with the intention of amending or improving the beliefs of Socrates' or conversational partner. Most of Plato's dialogues run like this: Socrates runs into someone, and somehow the topic of some specific virtue--for example, piety in the E...

• Word Count: 1839
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... and a man, beginning from the time when he passes his swiftest prime at running, begets for the city u to his fifty fifth year"(Plato, 140). Plato is trying to clarify the certain ages which men and women are when they are in their prime to reproduce with others. These are the ages ... big family and free any division. Everyone will be loyal and forgiving of each other. There are different city types explained in The Republic of Plato. Plato describes the cities in order from the just city. "Must we next go through the worse men-the man who loves victory and honor, fixed ... as free frie...

• Word Count: 1867
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

... a generalized biography of another person they once knew. However, this philosophical novel fits none of the descriptions above. The book is actually an in-depth recording of a philosophy contest between Plato's teacher Socrates and several other great philosophers. What is significant about this contest is that, in it, Socrates describes his personal view of a "perfect world," and why justice is so ... a reputation. At first they seem to be wiser and more knowledgeable than others, but after they have gained the respect of the citizens, they become corrupt and rule the city unjustly. R...

• Word Count: 1739
• Approx Pages: 7