Studies in Ancient Philosophy (420-0-20)

Topic

Plato on Political Expertise

Instructors

Claudia Yau

Meeting Info

Kresge 3438 Philosophy Sem. Rm: Tues 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

This seminar focuses on the accounts of political expertise in Plato's Republic and Statesman. In these dialogues, Plato examines the nature of political expertise, explains what abilities make for the best political leaders, and considers the backlash that would be invoked by his political theory. We will conduct a close reading of selections from these two dialogues and engage with other relevant primary texts and secondary literature. Knowledge of Greek is not required.

Class Materials (Required)

Grube/Reeve, Plato's Republic (Hackett)
ISBN: 0872201368

If students of Phil 420 already own Plato's Complete Works (Cooper), they do not need to purchase these texts

Class Materials (Suggested)

Rowe, Plato: Statesman (Classical Texts Series)
ISBN: 0856686131

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for Philosophy PhD Graduate Students