Plato s Views On Politics Essay - 2008 Words

Through much of Plato’s texts, there are many instances of common interpretations of terms and disciplines described in fairly uncommon ways. Such a trend is no different in both Plato s Gorgias and Apology discussing the importance and meaning of politics and the use of rhetoric. In the Gorgias, Socrates participates in a continued dialogue against the role of rhetoric’s deceiving nature as being the best way to live one s life. For he states to receive pleasure through injustice by means of rhetoric is the most wretched life that one live. Therefore, the rhetorician is the worst type of politician for they only want to convince through rhetoric to obtain pleasure rather than do what is best for the people. However, throughout the Apology Plato describes Socrates as taking a different take on the role of politics altogether. Unlike his convincing comments on politics in the Gorgias, Socrates claims he does not know much about politics and would rather of not survived i f partaken in such an occupation. Yet, this such claim fully supports much of his dismantlement of the role of rhetorician. As the politician for Socrates is one that deceives through rhetoric and since Socrates does not employ the tools of rhetoric he would not survive in the world of politics. Unfortunately, Socrates’s choice to stay away form the field of politics doesn t save him death after all as see with his sentencing to death in the Apology. While this may seem like a devastating outcome,Show MoreRelatedPlato s Views On Politics1802 Words   |  8 Pagesâ€Å"One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors† – Plato. Plato states that refusing to utilize the right to vote is equivalent to giving away one’s future and leaving it in hands of inappropriate people. In order to stride for progress one must wisely choose the people who are going to be in power to handle the nation proper ly. The human race has proven that an authority figure has to constantly be present in order for humans toRead MorePlato And Aristotle s Views On Politics And Society1090 Words   |  5 PagesPlato and Aristotle are philosophers that both have an idea of an ideal state but they have their differences. While there are benefits to each of their views on politics and society, there are also many negative things about their views. Some of their negative views were realistic at one point in time but few are the same in today s society. Although I don t fully agree with either philosopher, I would have to side with Aristotle overall. 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