Are human beings naturally political? Why or why not?
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Title: The Innate Political Nature of Human Beings
Introduction
Human beings have long been entangled in the web of politics, whether through the decisions they make, the relationships they foster, or the societies they build. This essay delves into the question of whether humans are naturally political creatures, drawing insights from the works of Plato and Arendt. By examining their perspectives, we can better understand the intrinsic connection between humanity and politics.
Plato’s View: The Innate Political Animal
Plato, the ancient Greek philosopher, believed that humans are inherently political beings. In his work “The Republic,” Plato argues that individuals possess a natural inclination towards forming communities and engaging in governance. According to Plato, the human soul is tripartite, consisting of reason, spirit, and desire. The just society, as outlined in “The Republic,” mirrors this tripartite nature by featuring philosopher-kings (reason), auxiliaries (spirit), and producers (desire).
Plato’s concept of justice in the individual mirrors the harmony found in the ideal city-state. He asserts that individuals are happiest when they fulfill their designated roles within society, contributing to the greater good. This interconnectedness between the individual and the polis underscores the innate political nature of human beings, as per Plato’s philosophy.
Arendt’s Perspective: The Public Sphere and Political Action
Hannah Arendt, a 20th-century political theorist, sheds further light on the inherent political quality of humans. In her work “The Human Condition,” Arendt emphasizes the importance of the public sphere in shaping political action. She argues that human existence is fundamentally social, and individuals achieve their highest potential through active participation in public life.
Arendt distinguishes between the private realm of necessity, where individuals attend to their basic needs, and the public realm of freedom, where political action and discourse take place. For Arendt, politics is not merely a means to an end but a fundamental aspect of human existence. She asserts that authentic political engagement allows individuals to exercise their capacity for freedom and self-expression.
Thesis Statement
In light of Plato’s emphasis on justice and societal structure and Arendt’s focus on political action and the public sphere, it is evident that human beings are indeed naturally political creatures. Our inclination towards community-building, governance, and public engagement reflects our intrinsic desire for connection, meaning, and agency.
Conclusion
Through the lenses of Plato and Arendt, we come to appreciate the deep-rooted relationship between humanity and politics. As social beings driven by reason, spirit, and desire, we are drawn to participate in communal life and shape our shared destinies. By embracing our innate political nature, we can cultivate flourishing societies grounded in justice, freedom, and collective well-being.
