Noble lie

Definition

The noble lie is a concept introduced by Plato in 'The Republic', referring to a myth or untruth that is told to maintain social harmony and promote the common good. It serves as a means to justify the social hierarchy and the roles within Plato's ideal state, suggesting that certain falsehoods can be beneficial for the cohesion and stability of society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The noble lie is essential for justifying the rigid class structure in Plato's ideal state, ensuring that each class accepts its role for the greater good.
2. Plato believed that the noble lie could help maintain order and prevent conflict among the different classes within society.
3. The concept implies that some falsehoods are necessary to foster unity and encourage individuals to act in accordance with their assigned roles.
4. In 'The Republic', the noble lie functions as a tool to educate citizens about their place in society while promoting the idea of a just city.
5. Plato argues that the noble lie must be carefully crafted and conveyed by the rulers to ensure its effectiveness and acceptance by the populace.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the noble lie relate to the social hierarchy in Plato's ideal state?
  • The noble lie is fundamentally tied to the social hierarchy in Plato's ideal state because it provides a justification for the different classes and their roles. By promoting the idea that each individual is born with a specific metal in their soul, such as gold for rulers or bronze for workers, it encourages acceptance of one's position within society. This acceptance is crucial for maintaining harmony and preventing discord among classes, thus supporting the stability of Plato's vision of a just city.
• In what ways does Plato believe that the noble lie contributes to social cohesion and stability?
  • Plato asserts that the noble lie contributes to social cohesion by instilling a sense of purpose and belonging among citizens. By believing in the myth that they have been assigned roles based on their inherent qualities, individuals are more likely to fulfill their duties effectively. This shared belief fosters unity among different classes, reduces potential conflicts, and allows for a harmonious functioning of society, which is essential for achieving justice in his ideal state.
• Critically evaluate the ethical implications of using a noble lie as a tool for governance within Plato's ideal state.
  • The ethical implications of employing a noble lie for governance are complex and provoke significant debate. On one hand, proponents argue that such lies can protect social order and promote harmony by ensuring individuals embrace their roles for the common good. However, critics contend that this undermines personal autonomy and integrity by prioritizing collective stability over truth. Additionally, it raises questions about who gets to decide what constitutes a 'noble' lie and whether such manipulation can ultimately lead to distrust between rulers and citizens, thus challenging the very foundation of justice that Plato aims to achieve.

Related terms

Philosopher-King: The ideal ruler in Plato's political philosophy, who possesses both love of wisdom and the ability to govern justly, ensuring the well-being of the state.

Guardians: The ruling class in Plato's ideal state, responsible for protecting and governing the city, embodying wisdom and courage.

Myth of Metals: A specific noble lie that divides citizens into classes based on their innate qualities, suggesting that people are born with different types of metals in their souls: gold for rulers, silver for auxiliaries, and bronze for workers.