PLATO ( BCE) A philosopher’s view on law. By: Mackenzie Bramhall and Lauren Carter

Plato was born in Athens city, Greece. He comes from a noble Athenian family. Plato originally wanted to be a playwright, but instead turned to philosophy.

Plato’s philosophy is looked upon as natural law. Natural law: unchanging moral principles common to all people, who strive to be good. “Laws are partly formed for the sake of good men; in order to instruct them how they may live in friendly terms with one another, and partly for the sake of those who refuse to be instructed, whose spirit cannot be subdued, or softened, or hindered from plunging into evil”. LAW

Plato believed that the law is a set of general, highly determinate and somewhat defective written rules, created by an association, to be obeyed by all members for the sake of peace. The written rules are to be followed by all members of the community. These rules are reminders for all that we are equals, and all share common laws. As equals we must show respect for one another, and live in a peaceful manner.

Plato viewed man as a rational creature living upon the earth. He believed that we have the changing uniqueness of a physical body, but we also have access to a higher, unchanging order through reason. Plato believed that the law serves the same function in a community that reason serves in the soul. He believed that through reason and reflection, one learns what they are meant to do from the knowledge they already have.

Body & Soul According to Plato Plato viewed the body and soul as two detached beings. Because of his view on the separation of the body and soul, Plato created his philosophical theories from the idea of a soul being created of three components. The three components are: Will, Reason, and Appetite. An example is: An individual could have an appetite or crave something but will resist the craving/ appetite with their own will power. CRAVING Will power

Plato’s Philosophy in Present Day Plato believed that all members of a society must obey laws in order to reach success. According to Plato, everyone is equal and should be given equal rights; therefore, needs to follow the same set of rules. Plato’s philosophical views can be seen in many aspects of modern society. In Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms, it states how individuals in Canadian society are to be given the rights to be treated equally to have our society succeed. Individuals in our society must also follow the rules stated in the charter in respect to other individuals rights and freedoms.

Facts About Plato Plato’s treasure is his best known work called “Plato’s Politeria” (Republic). Plato wrote the Republic which is a dialogue involving justice, character, and the just man. Plato was the teacher of Aristotle

Thanks for listening! Plato