Plato

According to Plato; justice is the excellence of our souls.

While reading the Republic of Plato, and The last days of Socrates justice was always a main issue throughout both books. One strong quote from the reading text that supports my thesis statement is " justice is the excellence of the soulÐ'... the just soul and just man will live well, and the unjust man will live illÐ'... And he who lives well is blessed and happy, and he who lives ill the reverse of happyÐ'...The just is happy, and the unjust miserableÐ'... happiness and not misery is profitableÐ'... injustice can never be more profitable than justice." This quote from Plato leaves me with the understanding that he believed justice to derive from one's soul.

Plato believes there are three "parts" to the soul, which corresponds to three virtues and three different interest of humans. The reason applies to those who seek knowledge to attain the virtue of wisdom. Spirit is the part of the soul used mostly by those who seek honor thereby using the virtue of courage. Desire wants pleasures and is regulate by the virtue of temperance. Justice does not appear on any list of virtues, but applies to them all. Justice regulates all virtues, so one doesn't take over completely. Reason and Spirit are mostly in charge with the help of justice which makes sure that one part of the soul doesn't overshadow the others. Plato was highly dissatisfied with the prevailing conditions in Athens. The Athenian democracy was on the verge of ruin and was ultimately responsible for Socrates death as acknowledged in The last day of Socrates. Plato saw justice as the only remedy that could save Athens from decay and ruin. In Plato's philosophy justice was of great importance. He used the Greek word "Dikaisyne" for justice which is similar to morality or righteousness, In his beliefs this was the duty of man.

Plato believed Athens democracy to be no effective. This was more than likely his reason for an ideal society. In his ideal society (The Just State - Plato's Utopia) there was organization. His ides was rule by the best. The ideal government would be ruled by the men and women who demonstrates ability and aptitude for ruling. The Guardians- The ruling group would be made up of philosophers - kings especially trained for government administrations. This group would never marry or own property. The Warriors- A group of warriors would be trained from youth in military skills in order to protect the state. The Workers- This group