Plato’s Ethics, Virtue, and Political Philosophy
Ethics and Virtue Theory
Plato believed that the first and foremost need of philosophy is to help men become good and virtuous. This can only occur within the body politic, in the polis. He continually criticizes the Sophists for relativizing moral values and turning them into mere conventions, leaving the individual without a fixed and secure guide for action, at the mercy of immediate impulses. To be masters of our own lives and conduct, we need to act on the essence of virtue. Virtue is the capability that enables each thing or person to fulfill its specific function, what we commonly call excellence, in the sense that we speak of a piano virtuoso, for example. However, the human being is defined by his love of the soul and completes various functions. Since it is composed of other forces, for each of these forces to perform their functions, they should be guided by a guiding principle. The rational part should be guided by wisdom, will, and desires. For these three parts to function, they must be governed by justice. The excellence of the soul, Plato demonstrates, is closely linked to Greek social life. There is no individual in the modern sense of interior and subjective individuality. Instead, every person is considered in close connection with their status as a citizen, as a member of the collectivity that defines them.
Political Theory
Plato’s political experience led him to propose a radical solution to the ills of the polis. He was not interested in any particular political system, as all have evils and injustices.
In Search of Justice in the Polis
This ideal of a perfect society is exposed mainly in the dialogue of the Republic. Justice is in the soul and the city. Plato was interested in whether justice is inherent in the human soul and therefore in human life. If not, then justice would be but a reflection of the varying influences of power. The Platonic ideal society should be based on justice itself, thus establishing the metaphysical foundation of his political theory, which not only describes political phenomena objectively but also provides a normative principle for the government.
Organization of the Ideal City
Three levels are established:
- A) The rulers: This is the top level, composed of those who love knowledge above all else (philosophers). The philosopher who governs was the prisoner who had left the cave, but after seeing the light, he comes back to teach the prisoners how to get out and put philosophy at the center of the polis. They will not have family or private property.
- B) The guardians: They defend the city, deprived of all sorts of material goods. The voluntary function of the soul dominates.
- C) The workers and traders: They have the mission of providing material goods to the whole population and are the economic lifeline of society.
An important element of this organization is education. Education is most important for the rulers, as they are going to be the leaders of society. That education is both physical and intellectual. From the ages of 20 to 30, they will be indoctrinated with the theory of ideas. The factor that unifies this social stratification is the idea of purpose. Justice will cooperate in this general welfare to achieve happiness.