Lecture Review: Plato's Concept of Justice and Forms of Government

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lectures on Plato's ideas of justice, the soul, and different forms of government.

What are the three elements of the soul according to Socratic thought?

Reason, spirit, and appetite.

What does appetite refer to in the context of Socratic philosophy?

A flutter of desires related to bodily needs, such as food, drink, sex, and material goods.

How is justice defined in Socratic philosophy?

Justice is when each part of the city (or soul) does its own work and does not interfere with the work of others.

What are the four types of virtues discussed by Socrates?

Prudence, courage, temperance, and justice.

How does Socrates compare the city to the soul?

He uses an analogy stating that the structure and harmony of a city reflect the structure and harmony of an individual's soul.

What characterizes a just soul according to the lecture?

A just soul is one that experiences inner harmony and happiness.

What does tyranny represent in the context of government forms discussed?

Tyranny is the worst form of government governed by a single dictator.

What distinguishes a philosopher king from a tyrant?

A philosopher king is a wise ruler governed by reason, whereas a tyrant rules arbitrarily, often without wisdom.

What is timocracy?

A form of government that is honor-seeking, characterized by a focus on honor and virtue.

What does the term 'democracy' originally refer to in ancient Greece?

Rule by lot or the common people's rule.

What is the problem with democracy according to Plato?

It can lead to excessive reach and manipulation of the common people.

What is the intrinsic value of justice described by Socrates?

Justice is an inner harmony that contributes to the well-being of the soul.

What does Socrates say about the rational part of the soul?

The rational part seeks truth and knowledge and should govern the soul.

How is spirit defined in the lecture?

Spirit (thumos) is a drive that supports reason when properly educated, associated with emotions like anger and ambition.