Plato Flashcards
Dualism
Soul and body are distinct: body is a temporary vessel, soul is important
Soul (psyche) is non-physical, distinct, and superior to the body
Account of the soul and the body
Soul is not simple, it has parts
Tripartite soul: reason, spirit and desire
Immortality of the soul
Soul’s eternal nature
Forms
Non-physical realm of perfect
Eternal forms are really real
Abstract, perfect ideals
Correct attitude to death
It frees the soul from the body, should not be feared
Seen as release
Philosophy as practice for death
It is better to be unjust/immoral, it is worse to suffer injustice
Truces are based on self-interest but no one cares about justice for its own sake
Justice in the city and the person and the tripartite soul
Four virtues (wisdom, courage, temperance, justice) in the city and in the soul
Temperance: driven by desire/appetite (working)
Wisdom: driven by reason (leaders)
Courage: driven by spirit/pride (auxiliaries)
Justice: balance among all 3 where people do what they are best suited for
Relation between men and women in the city
Whether someone is a good worker or not, it does not relate to their sex
Men and women are found in all parts of society
Life of the guardians
Guardians are Kings/Queens/Philosophers
Highly educated, love wisdom for its own sake and value truth and justice
They should not WANT to rule (prevent power struggle)
No wealth -> rely on the city for money
No family -> should have children
