Book Two

Analyze Glaucon's argument in the "Ring of Gyges" excerpt from the Republic.

Point out at least two flaws in his argument.

Do you agree that justice is a result of a social contract as he describes it?

Do you agree with his statement: "For all men believe in their hearts that injustice is more profitable to the individual than justice ..."?

Does "might make right"?

Are justice and happiness distinct?  Will we be just if we are not rewarded?

Book Four

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the analogy between a person and the polis?

What is compelling and what problematic about Plato's notion of justice as harmony of the parts of the soul (Reason, Spirit, and Appetite) and harmony of the "orders" of the polis (guardians, auxiliaries or soldiers, and workers)?