This new edition provides a reappraisal of one of the most controversial sections of Plato`s "Republic". Book 5`s radical proposals for the ideal state include an argument for the essential equality of the sexes and a policy of eugenic control.

This new edition provides a thorough reappraisal of one of the most remarkable and controversial sections of the Republic. Book 5`s radical proposals for the ideal state include an argument for the essential equality of the sexes; provision for full female participation in the work of the Guardians (including warfare); the abolition of the family for this same ruling class, with a sexual as well as economic system of communism; and a policy of eugenic control. Plato feared that some of this material would arouse amusement in his readers; in fact, parts of Book 5 have been subsequently used to support a charge of totalitarianism against Plato, while other elements have led to description of him as the first feminist. Book 5 also examines the relation between knowledge and belief, and in doing so embarks on the great structure of metaphysical thought which forms the centre-piece of the entire work. All these topics receive fresh and detailed consideration in the introduction and commentary, which are designed to make this important work accessible to a wide range of readers.