Why does Plato want the artists to be kept away from the ideal state? Discuss
Plato’s views on art and artists in his ideal state, as outlined in his famous work “The Republic,” stem from his broader philosophical beliefs about the nature of reality, truth, and the ideal society.
In “The Republic,” Plato argues that the ideal state should be governed by philosopher-kings, who are guided by reason and wisdom rather than by the whims of the masses. He believes that art, particularly poetry and drama, has the potential to undermine the stability and harmony of the state for several reasons:
- Mimetic Nature of Art: Plato argues that art is inherently mimetic, meaning it imitates or represents reality. However, Plato is concerned that art often portrays a distorted or imperfect version of reality, leading people away from the pursuit of truth and virtue. He worries that exposure to such representations could corrupt the minds of the citizens, leading them to prioritize the superficial and the fleeting over the eternal and the ideal.
- Emotional Manipulation: Plato believes that art, especially tragic poetry and drama, has a powerful effect on the emotions. He contends that it can evoke irrational and disruptive emotions such as pity, fear, and anger, which may cloud people’s judgment and lead them astray. In the ideal state, where reason should reign supreme, Plato sees such emotional manipulation as a threat to the rational order he seeks to establish.
- Influence on Morality: Plato is also concerned about the moral influence of art. He worries that artists may promote immoral behavior or values through their works, thus corrupting the moral fiber of society. Plato fears that allowing artists unrestricted freedom could lead to the proliferation of harmful ideas and behaviors, undermining the moral education that he believes is essential for the well-being of the state.
- Subversive Potential: Finally, Plato is wary of the subversive potential of art and artists. He sees them as potentially challenging the authority of the ruling elite and spreading dissent among the populace. By controlling and censoring art, Plato aims to maintain the stability and cohesion of the state, ensuring that all forms of expression are aligned with the overarching goals of the society as determined by the philosopher-kings.
In summary, Plato’s desire to keep artists away from his ideal state is rooted in his belief that art poses a threat to the pursuit of truth, virtue, and social harmony. He sees art as potentially misleading, emotionally manipulative, morally corrupting, and subversive, and therefore seeks to tightly regulate its influence within the society he envisions.