Features a critical assessment of Heidegger's interpretation and political use of Plato's "Republic". This book challenges Heidegger's 1940 interpretation of Plato as the philosopher who initiated the West's ontological decline into contemporary nihilism. In this fresh and provocative work,a clear and concise study of interest to readers of Plato and Heidegger, Mark Ralkowski offers much food for thought. He shows a sound understanding of the principles of Plato interpretation, reviewing crucial phases or schools of Plato interpretation from Schleiermacher to the present. This is an important task in coming to terms with Heidegger's relationship to Plato.