The Myth of Er in Plato’s Republic (Seminar 2024 Readings 6)
Jun 2, 2024
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Discover the captivating myth of Er from Plato’s Republic, which delves into themes of justice, spiritual growth, and the moral weight of our actions. Explore the post-death journey of souls, where they face judgment based on earthly deeds, contrasting the fates of the just and unjust. Delve deep into the cosmic structure of existence, highlighting personal choice and responsibility. Finally, gain philosophical insights into the importance of virtue when choosing one's next life, warning against decisions influenced by greed.
The podcast underscores the essential need for spiritual growth and self-reflection amidst societal crises, emphasizing the importance of personal evolution.
Through the myth of Er, the discussion illustrates the moral significance of individual choices and their consequences across lifetimes, advocating for wisdom in decision-making.
Deep dives
The Imperative of Spiritual Growth
Humans have made remarkable advancements in scientific knowledge but fall short in spiritual development and self-reflection. The current societal crisis poses a significant question: will individuals evolve into better versions of themselves and foster a new societal structure, or will they fail in the face of existential challenges? This concern is likened to the perils of the nuclear age, emphasizing that the stakes of self-reform are ultimately the essence of life itself. Acknowledging one's spiritual capacities is critical for navigating these profound societal changes.
The Myth of Er: Insights on Justice and Choice
The narrative of Er, a soldier who experiences the afterlife, serves as a metaphorical exploration of justice and the implications of one's choices. After dying, Er witnesses the judgment of souls, revealing that just souls ascend to a heavenly realm while unjust souls descend to punishment. Each soul is held accountable for their deeds across lifetimes, paying penalties or receiving rewards based on their moral actions. This allegory reinforces the notion that each individual holds the responsibility of making virtuous choices in life, with far-reaching consequences beyond death.
The Consequences of Choice in the Afterlife
The selection process for lives after judgment illustrates the importance of discerning good from bad opportunities, as many souls hastily choose paths reflecting their previous life experiences. Notably, those who have endured suffering tend to approach the decision-making process with greater caution compared to those born in privilege, who might regret their choices later. The story conveys that even the most seemingly advantageous lives can conceal hidden suffering, as exemplified by a soul who unthinkingly chooses tyranny only to face dire consequences. Ultimately, it highlights the critical need for wisdom and philosophical inquiry in determining which life leads to true happiness and virtue.
Laurie reads the famous Myth of Er from Plato’s Republic, the Grube translation, in preparation for teaching it in her summer seminar, More Real Than the World: Ancient Insights Into the Nature of God. Support the Maurin Academy on Patreon for access to this and all our other classes, reading groups and events: https://www.patreon.com/maurinacademy
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Political Philosophy: https://political-philosophy.com Dustbowl Diatribes and Political Philosophy are podcasts of the Maurin Academy, which can be found on almost all podcast platforms!
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