![]() ![]() ![]() For our purposes here, however, we will not take up details of this training program. Of special importance, Plato describes the thirty‑year training program for rulers, "philosopher‑kings," in the ideal state, including fifteen years of training in abstract reasoning (at the two higher levels of The Divided Line). ![]() Having arrived at the meaning of justice in the Republic, Plato proceeds to specify in greater detail the education, discipline, and lifestyle appropriate to the rulers and auxiliaries who are guardians of the state. For example, if persons naturally suited to growing peanuts or movie acting would try to rule the state, Plato would regard their attempts as instances of injustice. Accordingly, injustice occurs when members naturally suited to the functions of one class try to take over functions appropriate to another class or when, in personal matters, individuals try to possess or concern themselves with what does not properly belong to them. And Justice consists in each class performing its own proper function in the best interests of the state. Temperance exists in the ideal state when all classes exhibit the discipline necessary for proper submission to rule by the best. Courage resides with the auxiliaries who, with spirit and determination, carry out the directives of the rulers and protect the state. ![]() Wisdom resides with the rulers, who use their knowledge to prudently direct the affairs of the state. Presuming that an ideal state is also a virtuous one, Plato then considers the three classes with respect to wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice. ![]()
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