Comparing Socrates, Glaucon, And Adeimantus
Previously, Socrates, Glaucon, and Adeimantus had discussed certain teachings and poetry that Socrates believed should be shown in his ideal city. In his ideal city Socrates defines several characteristics and exemptions of the guardians and continues in this next section. Socrates states that the rulers or guardians should be the only ones allowed to lie, but only if the lie is to benefit the city. Socrates concerns himself with those individuals who do not stick to one art or activity, so if guardians were to participate in imitation, they should only do so if their actions are virtuous. Socrates then claims that virtuous individuals engage in both athletics and music to make for a healthy soul. So, guardians must take part in both in moderation
…show more content…
The role of the ruler or guardian is to protect the city, lead by example, and show excellence among the other guardians. Socrates states that there will be a division of the guardians. One select group will rule, and the other will defend and police. The group of guardians that will rule should be older, prudent and powerful, as well as extremely skillful in protecting the city. The men would like to ensure that those chosen as rulers will do everything for the interest and benefit of the city rather than acting in a way that is disadvantageous for the city. “Then we must select from the other guardians the sort of men who, upon our consideration, from everything in their lives, look as if they were entirely eager to do what they believe to be advantageous to the city and would in no way be willing to do what is not(412e). Guardians will be watched continuously starting at a young age to determine whether they are able to be persuaded and deceived. The guardians chosen will also be put into a competition; be tested to meet certain criteria, in order to examine their loyalty and honesty. “If a man appears hard to bewitch and graceful in everything...who on occasion, among the children and youths and among men, is tested and comes through untainted, must be appointed ruler of the city and guardian…”(414a). The qualities stated for the ruler are necessary to keep
The role of the ruler or guardian is to protect the city, lead by example, and show excellence among the other guardians. Socrates states that there will be a division of the guardians. One select group will rule, and the other will defend and police. The group of guardians that will rule should be older, prudent and powerful, as well as extremely skillful in protecting the city. The men would like to ensure that those chosen as rulers will do everything for the interest and benefit of the city rather than acting in a way that is disadvantageous for the city. “Then we must select from the other guardians the sort of men who, upon our consideration, from everything in their lives, look as if they were entirely eager to do what they believe to be advantageous to the city and would in no way be willing to do what is not(412e). Guardians will be watched continuously starting at a young age to determine whether they are able to be persuaded and deceived. The guardians chosen will also be put into a competition; be tested to meet certain criteria, in order to examine their loyalty and honesty. “If a man appears hard to bewitch and graceful in everything...who on occasion, among the children and youths and among men, is tested and comes through untainted, must be appointed ruler of the city and guardian…”(414a). The qualities stated for the ruler are necessary to keep