Why did Plato dislike the Athenian democracy?

Plato rejected Athenian democracy on the basis that such democracies were anarchic societies without internal unity, that they followed citizens’ impulses rather than pursuing the common good, that democracies are unable to allow a sufficient number of their citizens to have their voices heard, and that such …

What type of government did Plato prefer?

Aristocracy. Aristocracy is the form of government (politeia) advocated in Plato’s Republic. This regime is ruled by a philosopher king, and thus is grounded on wisdom and reason.

How did Plato view Sparta?

Plato also, in his writings, seems to prefer a Spartan-type regime over a democratic one. In later centuries, Greek philosophers, especially Platonists, often described Sparta as an ideal state, strong, brave, and free from the corruptions of commerce and money.

How did Spartan government differ from Athenian government?

Sparta was ruled by two kings, who ruled until they died or were forced out of office. Athens was ruled by archons, who were elected annually. Thus, because both parts of Athens’ government had leaders who were elected, Athens is said to have been the birthplace of democracy. Spartan life was simple.

How are the government of Sparta and the United States similar?

How are the governments of Sparta and the United States similar? Both systems separate governmental powers into three different branches. How did Pericles influence the formation of the United States government? He encouraged the people of Athens to write their own constitution.

Was Plato influenced by Sparta?

There is no doubt that Plato was influenced by the Spartan constitution and that he was willing to adapt some of its provisions either in his ideal city (of the Republic) or in his second best, “practical”, one, that of the Laws.

What was Sparta’s philosophy?

Spartan culture was centered on loyalty to the state and military service. At age 7, Spartan boys entered a rigorous state-sponsored education, military training and socialization program. Known as the Agoge, the system emphasized duty, discipline and endurance.

Why was spartan government better than Athens?

Sparta is far superior to Athens because their army was fierce and protective, girls received some education and women had more freedom than in other poleis. First, the army of Sparta was the strongest fighting force in Greece. Lastly, Sparta is the best polis of ancient Greece because women had freedom.

What was spartan government?

Aristocracy
MonarchyRepublicDiarchy
Sparta/Government

What type of government did Plato witness in Athens?

Plato witnessed democracy begrudgingly in his city of Athens. Ancient Athenian democracy differs from the democracy that we are familiar with in the present day.

Why did Plato hate democracy in Athens?

The first, rather obvious, strike against Athenian democracy is that there was a tendency for people to be casually executed. It is understandable why Plato would despise democracy, considering that his friend and mentor, Socrates, was condemned to death by the policy makers of Athens in 399 BCE.

What is Plato’s critique of democracy in the Republic?

Plato uses The Republic to deliver a damning critique of democracy that renders it conducive to mass ignorance, hysteria, and ultimately tyranny. Plato witnessed democracy begrudgingly in his city of Athens.

Was Athenian democracy a calamity?

Certainly, the numerous executions would give reason to doubt the system of Athenian democracy. However Plato believed there was a far more sinister nature to democracy. A calamity at the very heart of democracy, it would lead only to tyranny and subjugation.