History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps HoP 025 - Soul and The City - Plato's Political Philosophy
89 snips
Mar 20, 2011 AI Snips
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Republic's Context
- Plato's Republic explores justice in individuals and cities, reflecting the political turmoil of 5th-century Athens.
- The Peloponnesian War's impact and Socrates' trial are key contexts.
Melos' Destruction
- Athens demanded Melos join their alliance against Sparta, offering no justification beyond their superior strength.
- When Melos refused, Athens destroyed them, illustrating brutal realpolitik.
Forced Hospitality
- Socrates' initial encounter with Polemarchus mirrors the Athenian/Melian power dynamic.
- Polemarchus uses his group's superior numbers to compel Socrates, highlighting the theme of forced compliance.