PHILOSOPHY DISCUSSION

1.

In Book VII of the Republic Socrates explores the possibility of raising leaders who would love the State more then themselves. He proposes a curriculum of training that will bring character and moral courage producing leaders who can resist the temptation of power. He specifically focuses on one necessary characteristic of a leader that “hates voluntary falsehood”. This discussion brings examples of unethical leadership cases in history. Find an example of misuse of leadership power (you can think of war crimes, abuse of prisoners of war and many other examples) and discuss the case based on ideas presented in Book VII of the Republic.(250-500)

2.

What benefits does a training system like Plato’s offer? What dangers lurk beneath the surface? Would you like to be part of this society?(250-500)