Ideal Society in the Republic of Plato Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ideal Society in the Republic of Plato - Essay Example Plato's ideal society, among others, is inhabited by three classes, namely, Philosopher Kings, Guardians (soldiers) and Artisans. These three represent three elements in human nature – reason, spirit and appetite respectively. These three elements also have three corresponding virtues – wisdom, courage and temperance. There is an oft quoted saying of Plato where he puts philosophy and wisdom on the highest pedestal in the state. He says â€Å"Until philosophers are kings or the kings and princes of this world have the power of philosophy, cities will never have rest from their evils.†As such, his ideal society comprises the three main classes while his Ideal State is constructed through duly trained Philosopher Kings and Guardians. The training and discipline of philosopher kings is such that they are provided all safeguards preventing them form indulging in any digression vis-à  -vis justice in the state. Justice in the state rests in everyone following oneâ₠¬â„¢s own trade and activity for which one is suited best by nature and training (where required). The concept of justice here is linked to the Greek conception of dike, i.e., the just order. In such an order, each individual with respective and corresponding elements, virtues and metals of bronze, silver and gold is doing ones own job to a level of highest excellence. Justice, for Plato, is this excellence of work pursued in the area of one’s own best suited craft. Duly trained Guardians are to protect this Platonic city from invaders and wrong doers. These soldiers are like watchdogs and faithful to the dictates of philosopher kings and justice. Philosopher kings are the ones who can see the reality, knowledge, truth and justice. They are those who ‘know’. The education system and communism of wives and children helps prevent philosopher kings form indulging in any act of digression away from justice. Philosopher kings have come out like shining pieces of gold from the test of fire. Plato starts from state as an institution and moves to individual in his quest for justice. He considers division of labour and reciprocal needs. In this effort, he even discusses various other forms of government such as democracy, totalitarianism and aristocracy etc. He finds his ideal state as the best possible option among them all. Even entry of private property is also abolished in Republic.