La corruzione dell'animo dei potenti e le influenze socratiche sui libri VIII e IX della Repubblica di Platone

Abstract

The first part of the article exlpores Socrates' assertion that a tyrannical nature becomes even more tyrannical through the exercise of power (Plato, Resp. 576 b)). I aim to demostrate that this idea, along with other characteristics attributed to the tyrant in Plato's Republic, originates from prevalent opinions in classical Athens. In the second part of my paper, I argue that Socrates himself held these views on tyranny. Through a comparison between Xenophon's Memorabilia 4, 6, 12 and Plato's works, I seek to illustrate that the system of five constitutions presented in books 8 and 9 of the Republic can be traced back to Socrates, Additionally, I contend that Plato did not always successfully integrate it with his own ideas, as evident in the case of basileia/aristokratia. In the final part of the article, I endeavor to demonstrate that the notion, suggesting that the exercise of power corrupts evereyone, contradicts a fundamental doctrine in the philosophies of Socrates and Plato.