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At 592a, Glaucon says the just man "won't be willing to mind the political things." What is Socrates' answer? Will the just man take an interest in his own city? What is his own city?

A. Socrates agrees and states that the just man will not care about politics. His own city is the one he rules over
B. Socrates disagrees and argues that the just man will care about politics. His own city is the ideal, just city
C. Socrates believes the just man will only focus on personal matters. His own city is where he was born
D. Socrates claims that the just man should not be concerned with any city. His own city is an abstract concept

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Final answer:

Socrates disagrees with Glaucon, stating that the just man would care about politics, particularly in the ideal, just city—which is a well-ordered society where citizens contribute to the common good.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Glaucon says the just man "won't be willing to mind the political things" at 592a in Plato's Republic, Socrates' response suggests the opposite. Socrates believes that the just man will indeed be concerned with political matters. However, his involvement in politics is contingent upon the nature of the city. The 'own city' refers to the ideal just city, which is the subject of much of The Republic.

This city is one that is organized according to mutual need, where each person's abilities are recognized and used to contribute to the well-being of the society, and where soldiers, or guardians, are developed with a focus on the greater good, as they become leaders of the society. Thus, the correct answer is B. Socrates disagrees and argues that the just man will care about politics. His own city is the ideal, just city.

Socrates' view on political engagement is further highlighted by considering his dialogue in the Apology where he stresses the importance of living a life of examination and seeking wisdom, often through questioning and debate, which are inherently political actions.

Moreover, political philosophy, with roots in ancient Greece, often explores the relationship between the moral character of individuals and the nature of the political community. Therefore, participation in the political life of a well-constituted society is seen as part of living a good and virtuous life.

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