Plato’s Philosophy: A Journey from Cave to City
The Philosopher’s Duty
In Plato’s later dialogues, his theory of Ideas and the philosopher’s duty to the people become clear. The philosopher’s role isn’t self-serving; it’s to enlighten fellow citizens, as depicted in The Republic. The philosopher is best suited to govern, possessing the unique ability to contemplate the world of Ideas. “…and so we dare to say that [philosophers] should govern…” (The Republic, Book V, 474b). The philosopher must be skilled, but above all, possess a soul yearning for clarity. Plato’s Allegory of the Cave illustrates this: a man escapes the cave and sees the sunlight. Upon returning to encourage others, they dismiss him, clinging to their familiar reality. The philosopher, having seen beyond the sensible, faces similar resistance. “…But I fear that because of my interest in men, the Athenians give the impression that…I say to every man with a profusion…” (Euthyphro 3d).
The Utopian City and the Pursuit of Knowledge
In The Republic, Plato envisions a Utopian City where philosophy reigns supreme. Children’s aptitude for science is assessed, and those fit are guided towards dialectic, the philosopher’s tool for higher knowledge. “…but knowledge more and more beautiful is by far the regulation with regard to cities and families, which is called moderation and justice” (The Banquet 209a). Philosophy seeks the essence of things, what lies beyond our senses, between wisdom and ignorance—what Plato termed opinion. “…is it the right opinion, then, something like a middle thing between knowledge and ignorance…?” (The Banquet 202b). This essence, unchanging and present in all things, is the philosopher’s quest. “…about the philosophical nature agreed between us is this: There are always love to learn what they clarify that essence…” (The Republic, Book VI 485b).
Socrates and the Dialectic
Plato’s dialogues, featuring historical figures like Socrates, preserve his philosophy. Socrates, son of a midwife and lover of philosophy, is central. “…We are two lovers: each of two things: I, Alcibiades, son of Clinias and philosophy…” (Gorgias 481d). Socrates champions dialectic as the path to intangible knowledge. He faces criticism from those claiming expertise, who accuse him of repetitive, unproven arguments. “…because his dear comrade, she says what are you listening to me tell me…because this son of Clinias sometimes says one thing, sometimes another, but always philosophy same…” (Gorgias 482d). In Laches, the discussion on educating children leads to the concept of virtue, but a precise definition remains elusive. “Therefore we have not found Nicias, that is virtue” (Laches 199e). In early Platonic writings, Socrates relentlessly questions, seeking truth through maieutics. “It seems to me, friends, that Socrates speaks correctly. But it’s up to you to decide, Nicias and Laches, if you level is good and questioning and giving explanations on these issues.” (Laches 187c). When reasoning falters, Socrates restarts, but his partners aren’t always cooperative. “What are you doing friend? Walk away demolition of the great hopes he had that, after learning from you what is pious and what is not, set me free…” (Euthyphro 15e).