This study argues that Plato's is a gendered philosophy which contains within its basic tenets notions associated with masculinity. Consequently, the book explores the reasons why, in "The Republic" Plato includes women in the ruling class of his proposed ideal State on apparently equal terms with men and appears to offer them the opportunity to become Philosopher Kings - the ultimate rulers.

This work argues that Plato's philosophy is a gendered philosophy: it contains within its basic tenets notions associated with masculinity. Consequently, the book explores the reasons why, in The Republic, Plato includes women in the ruling class of his proposed ideal state on apparently equal terms with men and appears to offer them the opportunity to become philosopher kings, the ultimate rulers.