It turns out some cliches are true. This is especially the case when it comes to writing and the old adage “good writing shows, it doesn’t tell.” This paper is going to ask you to show the problems in defining justice as explored throughout Bk. I of Plato’s Republic. You’ll want to recreate the argument for each of the three definitions of justice as Socrates speaks with Cephalus, Polemarchus, and Thrasymachus and illustrate why Socrates has a problem with each definition.
Book I of course ends without a clear definition of justice for Socrates doesn’t provide one of his own.
What might this tell us about Socrates’ role as a philosopher, why doesn’t Socrates offer a definition? All papers should have an introduction laying out your paper as a whole, appropriate body paragraphs, as well as a conclusion wrapping up your paper.
You will be graded on the extent to which you answer the questions of the assignment, your analysis of the text, as well as formal features of writing which include spelling, grammar, paper structure, and the readability of your paper. As you write, please keep in mind the following applies: -3 pages in length -12” font -Times New Roman (or a suitable substitute) -1” Margins –
Double Spaced Being this isn’t a research paper there is no need to use materials outside of your notes and the assigned reading. In fact, please do not refer to outside sources. do however ask that you reference the reading throughout your paper. It is important for your paper to quote excerpts from the text and put Plato into your own words. Formal citations are not needed, instead just a simple indication of page number, e.g.: (pg., 14).
