Philosophy

States are going to form, whether purposefully or coincidentally. For this reason, certain
rules have to be enacted for the well-being of the state. The main way to institutionalize
rules is through government and in the form of laws. Plato's The Republic is not an
explication of laws of the people. It is a separation of power amongst three
classes--Rulers, Auxiliaries, Commoners--that makes the most of each person's natural
abilities and strives for the good of the community. The point is to create a harmonious
unity amongst the three classes which will lead to the greater good of the community
and, consequently, each individual.
The three classes are a product of different aptitude levels for certain tasks amid
various individuals. Plato assigns different political roles to different members of each
class. It appears that the only classes that are allowed to participate in government are
the Auxiliaries and, of course, the Philosopher Rulers. The lower class does not...