Exam 1 POL 161
Summer 2008
Name:
UID:
Directions: Each question is worth 2 points. Some require a longer explanation than
others in order to get the full points. Make sure you answer in complete sentences and
remain academic at all times.
1. Of the three separate opinions on justice, how do they reflect the profession of the
speaker?
2. What is the Ring of Gyges and why is the story used?
3. Discuss the 3 classes of a city and explain the function of each.
4. What is the myth of metals and why is it used?
5. What does Socrates settle on as the definition of justice?
6. How is it choice-worthy?
7. Describe the lifestyle of the Guardian.
8. What is a philosopher-king?
9. Why is it odd for a "philosopher” to be a proper king?
10. How does Ademantius feel about current philosophers?
11. How does Socrates account for how philosophers are viewed?
12. What does the allegory of the cave illustrate?
13. What is the goal of education, in this context?
14. Why is the dialectic dangerous?
15. Diagram the path to the philosopher-king, how do we fully achieve?
Directions: Label each with its proper title (this goes on the top line) and fill in each
level with the appropriate title. (20 pts)
(Individual)
(City)
(Myth)
(4)
Directions: Answer both essay questions and write in standard essay format (intro,
body, and conclusion). Failure to do so will result in a lowered grade. Answer each
question completely using the knowledge you have gained in class from reading and
lectures. The best essays are ones that connect the text with the lectures in the proper
format. Good luck, remember to answer both! (25pts each)
1. Discuss the difference between King Agathocles and Cesare Borgia in terms of
Machiavellian virtue. How are these men similar? How are they different? Why
does Machiavelli extol the accomplishments of one while condemning the other?
2. How much of Machiavelli is applicable to today? This is a book that is written
about monarchies, what strengths of his philosophy flows over into today? Which
parts are not as applicable? If Machiavelli is relevant and he is perceived as
“evil”, what does that say about government today? Do you agree that
Machiavelli’s book, The Prince is evil?