What system of government did Plato recommend in The Republic?
http://www.iep.utm.edu/platopol/#H4
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed_government#Ancient_Greek_philosophers
Plato, in his work "The Republic," recommended a system of government known as "philosopher-kings." According to Plato, this form of government would be an ideal and just system, where the state is ruled by wise and enlightened individuals who possess knowledge and understanding of the ultimate truth.
To arrive at this answer, one must engage in the process of textual analysis and study of "The Republic." Here are the steps you can take to find the answer:
1. Familiarize yourself with "The Republic": Read or review Plato's work, which consists of ten books, to gain a comprehensive understanding of his ideas and arguments.
2. Pay attention to Book V: Plato's recommendations for the ideal government are primarily found in Book V of "The Republic." This is where he introduces the concept of philosopher-kings and elaborates on their role and characteristics.
3. Analyze Plato's arguments: Delve into the text and critically examine Plato's reasoning for advocating philosopher-kings as the best form of government. Pay attention to his justifications and the qualities he attributes to these rulers.
4. Engage with secondary sources: To gain a deeper understanding and explore different scholarly perspectives, consult reputable secondary sources such as academic articles, books, or commentaries on "The Republic." This will provide you with additional insights and interpretations.
By following these steps, you should be able to determine that Plato recommended a system of government led by philosopher-kings in "The Republic."