Plato’s “Republic”: Moderation and Justice

NB: We do not resell your papers. Upon ordering, we do an original paper exclusively for you.

NB: All your data is kept safe from the public.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
Work Cited

Introduction

In Plato’s Republic, Socrates identifies four ideal virtues of man and civilization. Wisdom is present among guardians, and courage, defined as the ability to carry out the orders of the guardians, is found in the auxiliaries. The first two virtues are distinct, while moderation and justice provide a less obvious difference and purpose. Moderation refers to an agreement to the rule of certain parties over others and is found in citizens. Justice is “the power that consists in everyone doing his own work” (Arandia 24). In order to understand the relationship of justice and moderation both in a person and a polis, it is vital to assess Plato’s understanding of the soul.

Discussion

The reason, the spirit, and the appetite are the three divisions of the soul according to Plato. As such, wisdom can be seen to mirror reason, while courage and moderation reflect spirit and appetite reflectively (Arandia 6). Within the landscape of a polis, moderation exists as the ability to control one’s desires. On the other hand, justice may be perceived as a capability to do what one should. Guardians utilize moderation in order to remain in their roles and justice for excelling in their positions. The same concept may be observed with soldiers and citizens.

Socrates’ definition of a moderate man, much like the polis, relies on one being loyal to one’s duties and role within a set environment. Overall, moderation is summarized as an act that “sets his own inner life in good order and is master of himself” (Arandia 6). As such, the ability to control one’s desires and to devote time to one’s role in a polis creates not only a moderate but an ideal man.

Conclusion

Therefore, the moderate man is simultaneously the ideal man. While I can see the value in such rhetoric, in my personal experience it is incredibly hard if not impossible to identify with certainty one’s role not only as an individual but also as a facet of society.

Work Cited

Arandia, Marcos. Competing Visions: An Introduction to Moral Philosophy. Kendall Hunting Publishing, 2015.

Click Here To Order Now!

Plato’s “Republic”: Moderation and Justice

Do you need this or any other assignment done for you from scratch?

We have qualified writers to help you.

We assure you a quality paper that is 100% free from plagiarism and AI.

You can choose either format of your choice ( Apa, Mla, Havard, Chicago, or any other)