Plato, one of the most influential philosophers of ancient Greece and a disciple of Socrates, argued that the price of being indifferent to politics was to be ruled by the worst of men. This statement, uttered over two thousand years ago, remains relevant today. Plato was not only a political thinker but also a passionate critic of political apathy, and his arguments continue to resonate in our contemporary societies. In this article, we will explore Plato’s political philosophy and discuss why we believe that political indifference had such dire consequences.
The importance of politics in Plato's philosophy
To understand Plato’s warning, it is crucial to understand his view of politics and the role it plays in the life of a just and virtuous society. In his most famous work, The Republic, Plato describes his concept of an ideal society ruled by philosopher-kings, people with a deep philosophical education and a complete understanding of justice and morality. For Plato, politics was not simply a worldly activity, but a means to achieve justice and virtue in society.
Political apathy and its consequences
Plato was deeply concerned about political apathy and the lack of active participation in political life. He believed that when citizens became disinterested in politics, they left a vacuum that could be filled by people of dubious morals and selfish motivations. This, Plato argued, led to corruption and the deterioration of society.
In The Republic, Plato describes how those who seek power for selfish reasons rather than a genuine desire to serve the welfare of the community can come to power when virtuous citizens withdraw from politics. These corrupt rulers, according to Plato, would promote their own interests rather than the common good, exploiting society rather than serving it.
The responsibility of the citizen
But Plato was not only critical of political indifference; he also argued that citizens had a moral responsibility to get involved in politics. He argued that those who were virtuous and knowledgeable about justice had an obligation to lead and guide society towards virtue. This responsibility was not just a privilege, but an ethical obligation.
For Plato, political participation was a form of public service and a means to achieve justice and harmony in society. He believed that citizens should be active, critical, and engaged in the political process to prevent the worst individuals from coming to power.
Plato’s warning about the price of political indifference remains relevant today. It reminds us that politics is not a matter we should leave exclusively to others, but is a responsibility we share as citizens. Political apathy can have serious consequences, and it is our ethical duty to actively engage in political life to ensure our societies are just, virtuous, and governed by those who seek the common good rather than their own self-interest. Plato’s political philosophy calls us to action and reminds us that politics is an enterprise we must all embrace to promote a better world.
