"Allegory of the Cave"

Comparison Essay # 59924

Philosophy > Ancient Greek
Philosophy > Epistemology
Political Science > U.S.

Compares Plato's "Allegory of the Cave" in his work, "The Republic," to present-day issues.

1,446 words () | 1 source | APA | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

According to ancient Greek philosopher, Plato, in his work, "The Republic," there are four stages an individual goes through from the time he begins, shackled in the cave, to the time he is outside the cave looking at the Sun. This paper examines and critiques the different stages of awareness in a person's life, based on Plato's allegory, and looks at them within the context of contemporary society.

From the Paper:

"Let us look at the allegory of the cave in a political perspective, treating the bound prisoners as "the many" (hoi polloi) and the puppeteers as the politicians. To my dismay, I must admit that this picture is starkly realistic as far as existing political regimes are understood. If we look at the United States, supposedly the "freest" country in the world, we will find that this interpretation of the cave holds true. Politicians feed us ham and grits every morning, and pasta rigatoni every evening. They make unrealistic promises and constantly tell us what we want to hear in order to get reelected and maintain their power."