Plato's Republic

Plato’s book, “The Republic,” expresses an argument or debate between Aristotle’s son, Glaucon, and philosopher Socrates. The argument defines the advantages and disadvantages of justice and injustice. Also, during this discussion the philosophers unlock the character of the inner soul by the analysis of justice. According to Book 1 of “The Republic,” Socrates makes a clear rebuttal against Thrasymachus’ argument stating that “the strong” or “advantageous” make unjust decisions and therefore it may not be just to follow “the strong.” Also, Socrates makes an excellent point by stating that unjust men cannot work together and furthermore cannot accomplish anything. With Socrates’ conclusion of the argument of justice being more profitable, Glaucon is not completely convinced that justice is more profitable and gives an analogy of a man with a ring. This analogy explains that a just man will surely do unjust acts as no one can see his wrong doing. Ultimately, Glaucon explains through metaphor that a just man lusts to be unjust but consequences make him just. Plato’s “Republic” explains that justice is the mindset or characteristic of the soul. Socrates begins to prove this by strategically focusing on a city rather than an individual man. The cities inhabitants will focus only on their individual tasks and perfecting ones own craft. Also, within this city, classes will be formed as Guardians, Auxillaries, Craftsman, and wage earners. Education of moderation and virtues will be instilled at a young age with modified or specified music and poetry. Within this city, poetry and music will portray gods as positive images that do not participate in imitation. These stories will eventually shape the city into a just city. The ideal city will not focus on the happiness of an individual or class, rather the objective is to find the solution that will benefit the city as a whole. Socrates states in Book IV of “The Republic” that “we should consider whether in setting up our