Learning Journal Unit 4: Political Philosophy and my Learnings

University of the People

PHIL 1402-01 Introduction to Philosophy

Patrick Wong, Instructor
May 9, 2024
This week's political philosophy class has been very interesting, to say the least. We have delved

into different thinkers' minds and read about their ideas about what makes a perfect society, and

it's been fascinating to see how these concepts, formed centuries ago, can still spark debate

today. However, the most interesting and thought-provoking topic for me was Plato's vision for

an ideal state, presented in his book The Republic.

Plato proposed a society divided into three classes: philosopher-kings, guardians (warriors), and

producers (workers). Each class plays a predetermined role, ensuring the smooth functioning of

the whole. While the idea of exceptionally wise leaders, the philosopher-kings, guiding the state

is intriguing, it clashes with my modern sensibilities. (Levin, M, 2012)

Coming from a world that cherishes individual freedom and democracy, I find the rigid social

hierarchy in Plato's Republic somewhat unsettling. The notion of being confined to a preordained

role based on birth goes against my core belief in personal choice. Shouldn't everyone have the

freedom to explore their talents and pursue their passions? Plato's system seems to prioritize the

"good" of the state over the individual's right to choose their path in life. This conflict highlights

a tension that's probably as old as political philosophy itself as what's best for the state might not

always align with what's best for the individual. (Levin, M, 2012)

Aristotle, another philosopher we discussed this week, offered a different perspective. He saw

the family, society, and the state as natural extensions of our human need for connection. We are

social creatures who thrive in communities, and these communities evolve into governing

structures. He was also somewhat more in favor of democracy. This resonated with me, as it

acknowledges the inherent human desire to belong and cooperate.

Finally, learning about Saint Aquinas was a revelation. Much like myself, Aquinas's beliefs were

shaped by both religion and the intellectual currents of his time. Saint Thomas Aquinas, a

prominent thinker, envisioned an ideal state built upon the pursuit of the "common good” the

well-being of all citizens, not just a privileged few. His concept of a just ruler emphasized

leadership that actively promotes this common good through laws grounded in natural law and

reason. This emphasis on reason resonated with the values of free speech and open inquiry in my

own world. (The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, n.d.)

While my religious background lies in Islam, Aquinas' philosophy offers a surprising bridge

between faith and societal purpose. Unlike philosophies that solely focus on controlling sinful

behavior, Aquinas argues that religion can be a powerful tool to reinforce the common good.

This resonates deeply with my own desire to see my faith not just as a set of rules, but as a force

for positive change in my community. (The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, n.d.)

Previously I thought that faith and cause/reason are very conflicting concepts that could not

come together to form a single political system to run a society but after reading about the ideas

of Aquinas I think it is definitely possible to blend the two to come up with a political system

that focuses on the “Greater good”.

Political philosophy may deal with abstract concepts, but this week's lessons have sparked a

curiosity within me. It's been a journey of questioning, challenging assumptions, and discovering

how past thinkers continue to shape our ideas about the ideal way to live together.
References

Levin, M. (2012). Ameritopia: The Unmaking of America. NY: Simon and Schuster, Inc.

Plato. (1943). Plato's The Republic. New York : Books, Inc., Retrieved

from https://www.sciencetheearth.com/uploads/2/4/6/5/24658156/plato_-_the_republic.pdf

The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.) Thomas Aquinas: Political

Philosophy. https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/aquinas/

BRIA. St. Thomas Aquinas Natural Law and the Common Good - Online Lessons - Bill of Rights

in Action - Teach Democracy. (n.d.). https://teachdemocracy.org/online-lessons/bill-of-rights-in-

action/bria-22-4-c-st-thomas-aquinas-natural-law-and-the-common-good