Justice in Platos The Republic Essay - 527 Words

Plato creates a seemingly invincible philosopher in The Republic. Socrates is able to refute all arguments presented before him with ease. The discussion on justice in Book I of The Republic is one such example. Socrates successfully refutes each different view of justice presented by Cephalus, Polemarchus, and Thrasymachus. Socrates has not given us a definitive definition of justice, nor has he refuted all views of justice, but as far as we are concerned in Book I, he is able to break down the arguments of his companions. Cephalus is the first to give his opinion of justice as simply speaking the truth and giving back what one takes. In even simpler terms, it is to do the right thing. (Republic 331) Socrates argues that to give a†¦show more content†¦Justice is the advantage of the stronger according to Thrasymachus. He even goes a step farther to say that injustice is stronger and freer than justice, yet justice is the advantage of the stronger. Socrates shows that justice is in the receiver of it, not the provider. According to Socrates, a just man will be the healthier and happier man because he is wiser. So it is not a question of Socrates refuting the views presented to him by these three men, but one of the completeness of these views. Does Plato give each of these views a proper defense, or is he trying to build up his glorified version of Socrates? Cephalus is not given much exposure in Book I so his argument on justice is somewhat limited. But for Socrates, refuting a statement as simple as giving back what one takes does not take very long. Cephaluss view is given its due consideration and his purpose here is more than just to introduce an opinion of justice. Cephalus introduces the key subject of justice by talking about leading a good life. Socrates is able to tie this to justice and later tie justice to the soul. Polemarchus and Thrasymachus are given more time in Book I. Polemarchus continues the argument his father was making and takes it a step further to include discussions on friends and enemies. Socrates is able to convince his opponent to agree with him, as he does with all his opponents. Are there aspects of thisShow MoreRelatedJustice and Morality in Platos Republic3158 Words   |  13 PagesJustice and Morality in Platos Republic Explain and evaluate the reasons given by Plato in the Republic, to support the contention that justice is superior to, or more beneficial than, injustice? What is the relationship between justice and morality? Introduction This essay discusses and clarifies a concept that is central to Platos argument in the Republic — an argument in favour of the transcendent value of justice as a human good; that justice informs and guides moral conduct. 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