<human>:  Why did Plato write the Republic?
<bot>: Plato wrote the Republic because he wanted to explain his views about the ideal state. The Republic is his best known work, and it is the only work of his that has survived to the present day. In the Republic, Plato argues that the best kind of society is one ruled by a philosopher king. The philosopher king must be able to rule over everyone else, and he must have wisdom. He should also be a man who is able to lead the people to a life of virtue.