Philosophy Assignment #4

On pp.53 – 60 Socrates tells a (mythic) story about the origins of the city-state (Republic) and discusses why people form societies in the first place. He goes on to argue that it would be better if everyone in that society specialized in some work or profession.

 

1)      Why, according to Socrates, is it necessary for people to form societies in the first place?

2)      According to Socrates, what is it about a person that fits him/her to specialize? And why does such specialization benefit the society he has in mind?

3)      In this section, Socrates has envisaged a simple, “peaceful and healthy” community (that he also refers to as a state). Would you want to live in that community? Give your reasons.