ies
TOPIC
There is an unresolved issue between Thrasymachus and Socrates in Book I of Plato's Republic. Thrasymachus gives a
descriptive account of how the stronger, more powerful people in society often get to define justice. By contrast,
Socrates is seeking a philosophical account of justice, which would hold the stronger accountable to justice, regardless
of their interests. Although we did not read the remaining books of Plato's Republic to see his own definition of justice,
we have since read several other philosophical accounts of justice to compare and contrast with Thrasymachus's.
If Thrasymachus is right, there is likely no philosophical definition of justice. Power would then win over reason or
philosophy.
Some people defend Thrasymachus's view, believing "justice is what it is," even if it disappoints some people.
Some people who recognize that Thrasymachus's description is accurate aren't happy with it,
and they seek some other definition of justice.
Some aren't sure, yet.
(1) What do YOU think? Which account of justice would you defend: what justice is or what justice ought to be? How
would you defend your view? Do we need to start with what justice is for people and then move forward? Or____?
Before and while addressing this main question, identify an example of Injustice-personal or public, private or
professional-and ask yourselves which approach to justice would best enable you to understand and explain the
injustice of your example to yourself and other people. In effect, you'll be approaching justice from the perspective of
injustice.
(2) Discuss at least two other philosophers we have read so far-Aristotle, Wollstonecraft, Hume.
Remember to give reasons in your explanation and analysis. If you say "I think X," then continue: "I think X, because..." And,
when you give your reason(s), then also imagine, as way to move your thinking forward through a dialog, how the philosopher
you're discussing might respond.
Do not visit or rely on any secondary source, in print or online, as this is not a research paper but a philosophical paper
for you to develop your own views based on the assigned readings and our discussions of them.