The Republic
by Plato
In "The Republic," Plato explores the concept of justice and the ideal state through a dialogue led by Socrates. The work presents a vision of a society governed by philosopher-kings, where individuals are organized into three classes—rulers, warriors, and producers—each fulfilling its role to achieve harmony. It also examines the nature of reality and knowledge, famously illustrating these ideas through the Allegory of the Cave.
10 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from The Republic, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
The unexamined life is not worth living.
Justice means minding your own business and not meddling with other men's concerns.
We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.
No one is more hated than he who speaks the truth.
The greatest wealth is to live content with little.
Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.
Excellence is not a gift, but a skill that takes practice.
Courage is knowing what not to fear.
The measure of a man is what he does with power.
He who commits injustice is ever made more wretched than he who suffers it.