Book, Commentary on the republic (Averróis)[LS]

The Spanish-Muslim philosopher Averroes (1126-1198) occupied himself with politics convinced that the supreme good, the ultimate perfection and human happiness are only achieved in the ideal city. He deals with this theme in his Commentary (or Paraphrase) on Plato's 'Republic', in which he shows how customs and habits are established in the soul of man and how these customs are organized in social groups. Averroes defines the characteristics of this State and suggests that philosophy is the only one capable of correctly interpreting divine Law. The philosopher is necessary for the city, for the community, as he is the only one who can gradually transform the conduct of citizens and establish the definitive ideal city. Averroes knew how to propose to the Islamic community a political theory that found a basis in human reason integrated with religious Law. The translation offered by Anna Lia A. de Almeida Prado and Rosalie Helena de Souza Pereira will help to better understand Islam in its history and current situation. Rafael Ramón Guerrero