Statesman
Quick Summary
Plato's Statesman is a philosophical dialogue that explores the nature of statesmanship and the ideal ruler. It follows Plato's earlier work, the Republic, and further develops his ideas on political philosophy. In the Statesman, Plato acknowledges the difficulty of achieving a perfect state ruled by philosopher-kings, suggesting that the rule of law is essential in the absence of such ideal rulers.12
The dialogue delves into the complexities of governance, examining different forms of government and the challenges they face. Plato emphasizes that while a perfect science of government exists, it is hard to implement in practice. He stresses the importance of law as a necessary control on power, recognizing that no human ruler can be entirely trusted with unchecked authority. The Statesman is a key text for understanding Plato's evolving thoughts on political order and the practicalities of governing.12
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PlatoLate dialogues of Plato…of the Sophist and the Statesman, to be treated by genus-species division, are important roles in the Greek city; and the Philebus is a consideration of the competing claims of pleasure and knowledge to be the basis of the good life. (The Laws, left unfinished at Plato’s death, seems to…
Read More…of the Sophist and the Statesman, to be treated by genus-species division, are important roles in the Greek city; and the Philebus is a consideration of the competing claims of pleasure and knowledge to be the basis of the good life. (The Laws, left unfinished at Plato’s death, seems to…
Read More- PlatoLate dialogues of Plato
The Statesman discusses genus-species definition in connection with understanding its title notion.
Read MoreThe Statesman discusses genus-species definition in connection with understanding its title notion.
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Western philosophyLife…his later political works, the Statesman and the Laws, Plato tried to show that only a god could be entrusted with the absolute powers of the philosopher-rulers of his republic. Human rulers must be controlled by rigid laws, he held—though all laws are inevitably imperfect because life is too varied…
Read More…his later political works, the Statesman and the Laws, Plato tried to show that only a god could be entrusted with the absolute powers of the philosopher-rulers of his republic. Human rulers must be controlled by rigid laws, he held—though all laws are inevitably imperfect because life is too varied…
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political philosophyPlatoIn the Statesman Plato admits that, although there is a correct science of government, like geometry it cannot be realized, and he stresses the need for the rule of law, since no ruler can be trusted with unbridled power. He then examines which of the current forms…
Read MoreIn the Statesman Plato admits that, although there is a correct science of government, like geometry it cannot be realized, and he stresses the need for the rule of law, since no ruler can be trusted with unbridled power. He then examines which of the current forms…
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