| Subject: | Political Science \ Philosophy |
| Title: | Plato’s Theory of Justice: A Critical Analysis and it’s Contemporary Relevance |
| Author(s): | Aman Raj |
| Published on: | 30th April 2026 |
| Published by: | Lyceum India |
| Name of the Journal: | Lyceum India Journal of Social Sciences |
| ISSN/E-ISSN: | 3048-6513 |
| Volume & Issue: | Volume: 3, Issue: 5 |
| Pages: | 146-153 |
| Original DOI (if any): | 10.5281/zenodo.19690443 |
| Repository DOI: | |
| Abstract: | The paper seeks to critically analyze the theory of justice in The Republic by Plato. It examines the philosophical background that shaped his thinking, such as the theories of earlier Greek philosophers, and his criticism of Sophist relativism. The paper dwells upon some of the major ideas, including the Theory of Forms, the tripartite nature of the soul, and the concept of justice as harmony in the individual and in the state. The argument on justice being done when every part plays its correct role, made by Plato is examined. The paper also assesses the criticism of democracy by Plato and his suggestion of the philosopher-king as a perfect ruler with his knowledge and wisdom. Besides this, it indicates the applicability of the Plato theory in the current world where the problem of ethical leadership, governance, and social harmony are still pertinent. It is briefly compared to the Indian philosophical thoughts, especially to those of Bhagavad Gita. The paper concludes that although today the model of Plato is not completely applicable, its main principles can still provide a lot of valuable information. |
| Keywords: | Justice, Plato, Harmony, Tripartite Soul, Theory of Forms, Philosopher King, Democracy, Ethics, Political Philosophy, Governance, Virtue, Moral Truth, Social Order, Contemporary Relevance |
| | Download PDF |
