The Republic

By: Plato

Narrated by: Pat Bottino

In this monumental work of moral and political philosophy, Plato sought to answer some of the world's most formidable questions: What does it mean to be good? What enables us to distinguish between right and wrong? How should human virtues be translated into a just society? Perhaps the greatest single treatise written on political philosophy, The Republic has strongly influenced Western thought concerning questions of justice, rule, obedience, and the good life.

This work is also undoubtedly the best introduction to Plato's philosophy in general. Not only does it contain his ideas on the state and man, but also his famous theory of forms, his theory of knowledge, and his views on the role of music and poetry in society.

Public Domain (P)1995 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Worth it for understanding early philosophy

It's wonderful to hear the Socratic method of questioning in full force, but I would have liked Glaucon to be more challenging to Socrates in his line of thought. During the entire affair he's only really challenged once, and only given questions about his reasoning a handful of times. For the most part, Glaucon is far too agreeable with everything Socrates throws at him. There were several instances of Socrates getting away with false dilemmas, and showing one instance while assuming application to every instance.

I liked Pat's tone, but I would have liked more differentiation between the two speakers voices. It was at times difficult to discern whether it was Socrates or Glaucon speaking.

Loved this Audiobook

Loved it and recommend it!! I was able to follow this storyline perfectly. It was fun to listen, stop, think, and then rewind and then listen again. A light bulb turns on, “…oh that makes sense!!!” Love it.

Thoughtful and timeless

Plato's fascinating examination of the state and people, flawlessly translated, always kept me engaged. How such an ancent text could remain so timeless is a testimony to its importance.

Every American should read this!

Check out Dr.
Cuddeback on Institute of Catholic Culture to give a “guided” tour of The Republic. Excellent book…excellent teaching!

Descriptive like instructions

First 5 chapters very descriptive almost like instructions... from chapter 6 onwards it gets deeper into philosophical understanding.

Great

The narration is great! It is almost as if you are there listening to Socrates and the rest of the company talk amongst each other. I also love Jowet's translation.

Insightful content

I enjoyed how "The Republic" takes us through a philosophical journey searching for true and purposeful justice in society.

A great book

A wonderful book that I found to be developmental and maturative for a young man coming of age such as myself. I found this book to be highly intelligent and highly relatable. I further highly recommend this book.

Socrates says women make the best Pancakes 🥞🥞

"Need I waste time in speaking of the art of weaving, and the management of pancakes and preserves, in which womankind does really appear to be great, and in which for her to be beaten by a man is of all things the most absurd?

Ok, I am taking Socrates out of context, but it struck me as funny, mostly because I like Pancakes.

Jokes aside, The Republic is a very interesting commentary on Justice. I think that one of the most interesting parts in my opinion is his commentary on how democracy falls to Tyranny.

What a ride!

While occasionally speaking outside their wheelhouse, Socrates and company go into exhaustive detail about their idea of an ideal state while sussing out the essence of justice and the roles to be played within their ideal society. I suppose it should be no surprise that philosophers would position themselves as kings, or "guardians."