Argument Analysis: Plato’s Tri-Partite Soul

2 Pages 555 Words

Plato argues that the soul is composed of three parts. The argument supporting this claim is obtained by analyzing the conflict in decisions. Plato has observed that an individual will act in different ways to the same situation. Also, the parts of the soul are defined in a way in which they can be derived from the functions in Plato’s ideal state. The three parts of the soul are present in every individual and designated as appetite, reason, and spirit.

The first part of the soul defined as appetite, which Plato believes is contained in the belly and organs, is represented in the ideal state as the function of the producers. The appetite is present in the desires of the individual. Plato uses the notion of an individuals thirst for drink to demonstrate this desire, as people naturally want to drink. According to Plato, one part of the soul does not function alone. So, as one has the thirst for drink, they must also determine whether the drink they seek could have dire consequences on their health. The decision whether to abstain or proceed is not completely determined by their appetite, but instead is influenced by reason, another part of the soul.

Reason is part of the soul believed to be contained in the head, and is demonstrated by the function of the rulers. Reason, compared to the rulers who exercise wisdom and knowledge for the good of all, is used on the behalf of the good of the entire individual. The example of an individuals thirst for drink demonstrates the ability of reason to master the motives of appetite and desire. In Plato’s ideal state, the rulers can master the producers and auxiliaries who all interact. The same concept is shown in the individual, with reason having the ability to master the appetite and spirit.

The third part of the soul is spirit, represented in the ideal state as the auxiliaries. Spirit is believed to be contained in the chest, and is defined by the emotions on how to act. Spiri...