Topic > The Definition of Justice - 851

Plato's Republic examines many aspects of the human condition. In this writing Plato reveals Socrates' feelings as they define the way human beings function and interact with each other. Socrates looks even more closely at morality and the values ​​that individuals deem most important. One value considered by Socrates and his colleagues is the principle of justice. Multiple definitions of justice are given, and Socrates analyzes the merit of each. As the group defines justice, they show how self-interest shapes the progression of their arguments and contributes to the definition of justice. The theme of justice first arises through a conversation between Socrates and Cephalus. The two are reflecting on their old age, evaluating how they have lived their lives, when Cephalus states that his wealth "prevents him from having to leave life for fear of owing debts to men or sacrifices to the gods." [331b] This comment leads Socrates to question Cephalus on the topic of justice, asking him if he really believed that justice consisted simply in telling the truth and giving back what one receives. Socrates believes that this definition is too simple and asks whether "it is sometimes right to behave in this way, and sometimes wrong?" [331c] Socrates asks this question: if someone borrowed weapons from a friend, and then this friend went mad, would it be right to return the weapons to the friend? Although Cefalo's definition would justify returning the weapons, the two conclude that it would not actually be the right thing to do. The two believe that this statement does not fit the definition of justice. While Cephalus leaves the conversation, Polemarchus continues it. Polemarchus forms his idea of ​​justice by quoting Simonides, ...... middle of paper ...... the city defines justice the group of individuals hopes to gain a better understanding of the topic. After considering justice within the state, Socrates believes that the group should consider justice on an individual basis. It is here that he states that "justice, although it resembles a mirage, is actually about internal rather than external activity." This shows how justice means understanding one's own self-interest before attempting to engage in external affairs. The arguments of all individuals sought to define the true meaning of justice. The topic proved to be quite challenging. Socrates logically refutes every argument and through this slowly forms his own definition of justice. It shows how self-interest influences every definition and the reasons why one chooses to be right. With this he concludes that justice resides in the soul and in the individual.