Compare and contrast the methods and conclusions of Plato’s Republic and Aristotle’s Politics.

Plato’s Republic utilizes the method of Socratic dialogue and a thought experiment in the form of an allegory. The method of the Socratic dialogue is evident from the first chapters, as Plato provides an account of Socrates engaging his company in a philosophical discussion on the meaning of justice.

The discussion then shifts into the allegory, first the philosophers create a utopian city based on the principles of which they can discuss the various forms of true justice. Later, Plato creates his famous allegory of the Cave, which seeks to portray the difference between education and enlightenment, or a lack thereof.

The Republic concludes with the suggestion that justice is ultimately better than injustice and that the just man is a happier man than one who it is unjust, focused on defining the good of the community not the good of the individual.

Aristotle’s Politics meanwhile uses more of a theoretical and practical analysis. He examines the different types of poleis in his time and offers feedback on how and where these communities fail from being ideal as poleis of virtuous citizens.

Aristotle’s method is to explain, defining the key terms and making connections between his observations. His usual method of discussing politics is seen in this book, as he initially outlines and determines opinions of the general acceptance by the majority. Then, he systematically examines and disproves them until arriving at the conclusion of the argument that he has been laying out throughout the discussion.

The general outcome of Politics is that all communities aim to be good, with the polis able to achieve that at the highest level is one where humans can fulfill their potential, he argues against slavery and promotes culture, education, and ethics.