Thrasymachus Perspective on Human Nature Essay - 1298 Words

Thrasymachus Perspective on Human Nature Thrasymachus perspective of human nature is that we all seek to maximize power, profit and possessions. He gives the argument that morality is not an objective truth but rather a creation of the stronger (ruling) party to serve its own advantage. Therefore definitions of just and unjust, right and wrong, moral and immoral are all dependent upon the decree of the ruling party. Thrasymachus argues that acting morally, in accordance with the ruling party, benefits the ruling party, while acting immorally, injures the ruling party and benefits oneself. Thrasymachus perceives human nature as our ruthless drive toward superiority. He believes that unless we are foolish†¦show more content†¦2. My human nature drives me to maximize my power, profit and possessions. These, and only these, are what I take value in. 3. I am not in total power and I desire to be to maximize the three ps. 4. I have no qualms about injuring others, only in others injuring me. 5. Injuring those in power can make them lose power. If they lose power I could become superior to them. 6. Morality is defined by those with power. 7. Being moral benefits those in power; being immoral injures those in power. C. Living immorally is the way to gain power, and thus maximize my profit and possessions. Socrates contests Premises 1 and 2 of this argument. Socrates attacks the Premise 1 in stating that rulers are not active in acquiring the three ps, they are servants to the entirety of their jurisdiction. Socrates says, all authority†¦ considers what is best for nothing except its subjects, its wards. (Republic 345d) Socrates also attacks Premise 2, disagreeing that we value only possessions. Socrates favors knowledge, the approval of the gods, and a healthy soul (see the justification Socrates uses in not allowing his friends to bribe him from prison in Crito). Socrates says, morality is a good state and is knowledge, and an immoral person will be an enemy of the gods, Thrasymachus, and a moral person will be in their favour. Because the only attribute Thrasymachus gives human nature is the desire for power, profitShow MoreRelatedThe Ethical Egoist: Whats the Problem in Plato’s The Republic, Socrates824 Words   |  3 Pagesof their statements. Socrates argues that there are many problems with their views on social philosophy, especially when it comes to Thrasymachus’ idea of ethical egoism. Plato delivers his view of justice through Socrates when he responds to Thrasymachus, Glaucon, and Cephalus on the issue. 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