Abstract
In Plato’s “Republic”, Glaucon urges Socrates to reveal the essence of the good. But Socrates is reluctant, since he fears disgracing himself and looking ridiculous by trying (R.506d6-7). In fact, after the simile of the sun, Glaucon says “very ludicrously” (R. 509c1-2): “By Apollo, hyperbolê can no further go?” (R.509c1). But why should the good or the generating principle which surpasses being in dignity and power (R.509b9-10) invite such a ludicrous reaction? Is Plato here alluding to the genital member of his philosophy which surpasses in dignity and power every other possession?
Ferber, Rafael