Plato has
differing views from Aristotle on the value of studying philosophy “At present,
those who study philosophy do so as young men who have just left childhood
behind and have yet to take up household management and money-making?” (498) but on the other he notes Socrates notes “Then,
when their strength begins to fail and they have retired from politics and
military service, they should graze freely in the pasture of philosophy and do
nothing else.”
Plato sees
philosophy as a coming of age for those of higher classes to become part of the
aristocracy. He sees a grounding in philosophy as grounds to become a ruler of
guardians. Socrates seems to see philosophy as a pursuit older people follow at
the end of their life. When the elderly graze freely in the gardens is this a
fulfilling way to end their life or a hopeful way to envision their new
society?
“or until a god inspires the
present rulers and kings or their offspring with a true erotic love for true
philosophy” (499c).
Where do
Philosophers fit in Plato’s idealized society? Why does Plato use the phrase at
present what does he predict the study of philosophy will go. Do adolescents
and the elderly study philosophy for the same purpose? Are philosophers really
the best leaders? Why does Plato consider old age the time to study philosophy
is he unintentionally inferring philosophy is a frivolous pursuit. What is God
able to give the philosophers? Can philosophy be both arbitrary and education
for the future? If Philosophy is necessary to run a city why would the elderly engage
in this pursuit when their professional life is behind them? What is the
purpose of studying philosophy?
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