Plato’s cave analogy describes how there is a distinct perfect world out there made up of perfect forms. Plato believes the world in which we live in now is imperfect, and simply a copy of the reality of the perfect world that exists. This theory came about through the story of prisoners who were chained in a cave, where all they could see was the wall in front of them because they couldn't turn their heads. Behind them burns a fire, and puppeteers use objects to cast shadows on the wall. The prisoners can only see the shadows and hear the echoes from the objects therefore this is what they perceive to be reality. A prisoner is released and forced to look past the fire and objects which up until now has been perceived as reality. After climbing out the cave his eyes adjust away from the shadows and reflections and he begins to see sunlight and people in their own existence. This brings in to context that the others cannot understand something they have yet to experience, therefore it is down to the prisoner to adapt to leadership. Plato describes those who have recognised the forms of goodness as responsible leaders. This story told my Socrates and Glaucon puts into perspective how reality plays such a significant part in our own existence, and depending on how one understands it will results in a duty for leadership and government.
Plato believes that the soul is organised into three parts:
REASON - Knows the forms therefore reality
SPIRIT - Consists of courage, ferocity, aggression. This is amoral as it wants honour but does not know what honour is.
DESIRE - Constant Craving
Well that was a very philosophical bed time story, sweet dreams all xxx
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