The Republic Lesson Plan

Do you agree with Socrates's explanation of why philosophers were dismissed as useless by a majority of people in his time? Do you believe that this is still true today? Why or why not? Are people with uniquely useful talents often dismissed by others, generally speaking?

Students may be skeptical (unfortunately!) that philosophers are simply unappreciated geniuses. However, they are likely to recognize that special talents or expertise often make one a misunderstood outsider. Some may offer examples of artists or intellectuals they've learned about who struggled to find acceptance in society. The teacher can also use this as an opportunity to discuss some of the...