Do philosopher kings exist?

The ideal of a philosopher king was born in Plato’s dialogue Republic as part of the vision of a just city. It was influential in the Roman Empire and was revived in European political thought in the age of absolutist monarchs.

What was the theory regarding Plato’s view of reality based on?

Plato believed that true reality is not found through the senses. Phenomenon is that perception of an object which we recognize through our senses. Plato believed that phenomena are fragile and weak forms of reality. They do not represent an object’s true essence.

What is a philosopher king according to Plato?

Philosopher king, idea according to which the best form of government is that in which philosophers rule. The ideal of a philosopher king was born in Plato’s dialogue Republic as part of the vision of a just city. It was influential in the Roman Empire and was revived in European political thought

Is the rule of Kings justified according to Plato?

The philosopher kings have virtue as they have knowledge, and thus, according to Plato, their rule is justified. Plato’s argument is very much in line with what he defines as democracy, the rule of the unfit.

Who should rule according to Plato?

The question of who should rule emerges, to which the essay will conclude by saying that, in terms of Plato’s argument, the philosopher kings should not be the rulers, as Plato is advertising an undemocratic political system led by a benevolent dictator.

What is the meaning of knowledge according to Plato?

Understanding refers to goodness, and thus, knowledge and goodness are one. The philosopher kings have virtue as they have knowledge, and thus, according to Plato, their rule is justified. Plato’s argument is very much in line with what he defines as democracy, the rule of the unfit.