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VOL. 12, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Re-conceptualising the ideal state of Plato in the context of contemporary democracy
Authors
Mijanur Ansary
Abstract
One of the first organized attempts to conceptualize justice and
government is the conception of the ideal state put forward by Plato in The
Republic. However, the direct relevance of his views is called into question by
the development and emergence of contemporary democratic regimes. In the
context of modern democracy, this essay critically reexamines Plato's ideal
state, emphasizing its philosophical underpinnings, inherent constraints, and
potential for reinterpretation. The paper examines the conflicts between
Platonic elitism and democratic ideals like equality, liberty, and
participation using a comparative and analytical method. It contends that
although while Plato's paradigm is essentially hierarchical and incompatible
with democratic inclusivity, some aspects of it—most notably his emphasis on
moral leadership, organized education, and the pursuit of justice—remain
relevant today. The study concludes that, when applied to contemporary
democratic ideals, a rethought interpretation of Platonic philosophy can
significantly improve institutional efficacy and moral governance.
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Pages:496-500
How to cite this article:
Mijanur Ansary "Re-conceptualising the ideal state of Plato in the context of contemporary democracy". International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, Vol 12, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 496-500
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