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Why does Plato suggest that those who gain enlightenment by escaping the cave should be made to return to the cave to rule the unenlightened selflessly as "philosopher kings"? Why aren't they sent back to educate the cave dwellers rather than to rule them?

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GinnyAnswer

Final answer:

Plato suggests that enlightened philosophers should return to the cave to rule as 'philosopher kings' due to their capability to govern and possess the knowledge of the good, emphasizing reciprocity and gratitude for their education.


Explanation:

Plato suggests that enlightened philosophers should return to the cave to rule as 'philosopher kings' because they possess the knowledge of the good and are capable of governing, which is essential for the well-being of the society. The duty to descend and govern is believed to be owed by those who have been educated by the city, emphasizing reciprocity and gratitude.

Returning to educate the cave dwellers might not be as effective as ruling them because philosophers have the virtue of political wisdom necessary for governance. Their reluctance to rule is seen as an advantage, as those not eager to rule are deemed most suitable for governance.

The concept of 'supererogation' distinguishes the duty of the enlightened philosopher to descend and rule from actions that are merely praiseworthy. Only those who owe their enlightenment to city education are deemed to have a duty to govern, highlighting the importance of education in Plato's philosophical view.


Learn more about Plato's philosophy and the duty of enlightened philosophers to descend back into the cave for governance here:

https://brainly.com/question/37669406


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