Similarities Between Plato And Aristotle

Plato and Aristotle influence the world through their philosophical works. Two popular philosophical works are The Republic by Plato and Politics by Aristotle. Both works explore the concept of society and how a society should be made up. When Plato and Aristotle were living, Plato was a mentor to Aristotle. Although Aristotle respected Plato as a mentor, their philosophical works and beliefs differ. Through both of their works, Aristotle and Plato explore the concept of the common good. Both Plato and Aristotle believe in the common good of society, yet their approaches for developing the common good differ. Plato approaches the common good in an idealist manner based on a dualistic conception where the body and soul are two distinct entities …show more content…
Plato strongly believed in an idealistic society. Within Plato’s society, each individual had a specific task that they were suited for. Ultimately, doing what one is suited for will positively benefit the entire society. Plato’s ideal society consists of three classes: guardians, artisans, and auxiliaries. Guardians rule others. Auxiliaries are the warriors. Artisans are all people that are not guardians or auxiliaries. Although the guardians rule others, Plato believed they were not to have their own personal …show more content…
Plato’s society encompasses three distinct classes, yet he states, “our aim in founding the state was not the disproportionate happiness of any one class, but the greatest happiness of the whole,” (Plato Book IV). Plato emphasizes the importance of the happiness of each class, not just the highest class. It is possible that the guardians are the happiest individuals, but is that realistic? In general, the guardians within Plato’s society sacrifice their immense talent in a subject such as philosophy or mathematics and rule others. Their sacrifices may not lead to pure happiness, but ultimately, the society aims for happiness for the entire society, therefore, the guardians, artisans, and auxiliaries will all encompass a common happiness. This common happiness is the common