The Cause - Rob Pirie
Please join me in embarking on the Harvard Classics Series by Dr. Charles Elliot. This series dates back to around 1910 and is a collection of literature that I believe needs to be revived and rediscovered. I look forward to reading and discussing all 50 volumes with you as we learn about the great ideas of those who came before us. In this series, we will dive into Greek and Roman history, the American Founders, works from Francis Bacon, John Milton, and many more. We will cover Shakespeare and Chaucer and also some fictional works like Don Quixote which are all included in the Harvard Classics.
We will also review other books on this podcast that fit the classical education theme.
This series is being created for those passionate about classical education and as a supplement to homeschool curriculums. I truly hope these classical works of literature bring you as much joy as they do me.
Feel free to reach out with any questions as I would love to hear from you!
Rob Pirie
The Cause - Rob Pirie
Why Plato's Republic STILL Matters | Are You Lost In The Cave?
Why Plato’s Republic Is Still Important
Plato's "Republic" explores justice, the ideal state, and the nature of the soul through a dialogue led by Socrates. The work is structured as a discussion among several characters, primarily Socrates and Glaucon.
Key themes include:
1. Justice: Socrates seeks to define justice, arguing that it is about harmony in both the state and the individual. Justice involves each part fulfilling its role.
2. The Ideal State: Plato outlines a tripartite society: rulers (philosopher-kings), warriors, and producers. Each class corresponds to a part of the soul: rational, spirited, and appetitive.
3. The Allegory of the Cave: This metaphor illustrates the difference between the world of appearances and the world of forms (true reality). It suggests that many people live in ignorance, mistaking shadows for reality.
4. Theory of Forms: Plato posits that non-material abstract forms (like beauty and justice) are the most real, as they represent true knowledge.
5. Education: The importance of education in shaping the soul and preparing individuals for their roles in society is emphasized, particularly for future leaders.
Overall, "Republic" is a foundational text in Western philosophy, posing deep questions about ethics, governance, and the human condition.
I hope you enjoy the video
1. A Defense Of Classical Education: https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/mp/a-defence-of-classical-education/
2. Weapons Of Mass Instruction: https://amzn.to/3RojPS1
3. The Republic: https://amzn.to/45kkp9o
4. The Social Contract: https://amzn.to/4cl1Ns9
5. The Abolition Of Man: https://amzn.to/3VD5X92
6. Discourse On Voluntary Servitude: https://amzn.to/3x3AFPv
7. The Road to Serfdom: https://amzn.to/3Xq8hSp
8. The Political Theory Of The American Founding: https://amzn.to/4chLD2x
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