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Political Science → Plato: The Laws
The Laws
This political treatise represents lenient view of Plato. He agrees that the ideal state might not be practical. If that is fact, then law should be substituted for philosopher king. As law holds complicated fabric together thus, it must be sovereign than men. It must be for the collective welfare. In Republic guardian were to maintain status quo; here, rigid law will do that. Plato ideal state in the Republic was more based on communism and intellect of philosopher kings. Here in the Laws, he suggests different model of the state with following characteristics:
- A state located inland, away from sea
- Preferring land army over navy
- Not excessive commercial traffic on ground as it will divert attention from civic duties
- Self-supporting agricultural community that is neither too poor nor too rich; commerce brings more than desired wealth so, agriculture should be preferred
- Number of People to be 5040. Property in state will be divided in 5040 lots.
- Private property can be owned but to extent; Land is indivisible and communal when it comes to the produce.
- Government of state led by 12 tribes’ state council
- Proper currency and weight system
On family, Plato stresses upon the education, work and vote of women. Citizens are to be taught that marriage has public and private end. He didn’t suggest communism of family here as it is not ideal state. Extremes in the human nature should be modified by union in marriage of opposites. This will give the state moderation. Government in model state shall be opposing governmental forms. Oligarchy and democracy combined will make the best practicable state.