Auxiliaries

Definition

Auxiliaries refer to a specific class of guardians in Plato's ideal state, primarily tasked with enforcing the laws and protecting the city. They serve as a bridge between the ruling class, known as the philosopher-kings, and the general populace, ensuring that justice is maintained and order is upheld in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Auxiliaries are primarily responsible for enforcing the laws set by the philosopher-kings, acting as both soldiers and enforcers of justice.
2. Plato envisions auxiliaries as individuals with courage and loyalty, important traits for their role in protecting the city and its values.
3. The training of auxiliaries includes physical education and military training to ensure they can defend the state against external threats.
4. In Plato's view, a well-ordered society relies on auxiliaries to mediate between the rulers and the masses, preventing tyranny and chaos.
5. Auxiliaries embody the spirited part of the tripartite soul, reflecting their role as defenders who uphold honor and courage in society.

Review Questions

• How do auxiliaries fit into Plato's vision of justice within his ideal state?
  • In Plato's ideal state, auxiliaries play a crucial role in achieving justice by maintaining order and enforcing the laws set by the philosopher-kings. They act as protectors of the city, ensuring that the ideals of justice are not just theoretical but actively upheld in daily life. Their training emphasizes courage and loyalty, making them effective defenders of societal harmony against any threats that could disrupt justice.
• Discuss the characteristics that Plato believes are essential for an auxiliary and how these contribute to their function within society.
  • Plato believes that auxiliaries must possess characteristics such as courage, loyalty, and strength to effectively fulfill their role in society. These traits are essential for ensuring they can protect the city from external threats and uphold justice as defined by the philosopher-kings. Their character development is rooted in rigorous training, which prepares them to act decisively in defense of societal order while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.
• Evaluate the implications of having auxiliaries as part of Plato's ideal state regarding potential criticisms of his political theory.
  • Having auxiliaries as a distinct class within Plato's ideal state raises questions about power dynamics and potential abuses. Critics might argue that this separation could lead to a militarized society where auxiliaries prioritize loyalty to their leaders over justice for all citizens. Furthermore, the reliance on a warrior class may lead to tensions between different classes, challenging Plato's vision of a harmonious society. This raises broader concerns about how power is distributed and exercised in any political system.

Related terms

Philosopher-Kings: The ruling class in Plato's ideal state, who possess the wisdom and knowledge necessary to govern justly and effectively.

Guardians: A broader term that encompasses both the rulers (philosopher-kings) and the auxiliaries in Plato's state, responsible for maintaining justice and order.

Tripartite Soul: Plato's concept of the soul divided into three parts: rational, spirited, and appetitive, which parallels the structure of his ideal state’s classes.