Q.18. What are the qualifications of Plato's philosopher king ?
[M.U. 2013]
Ans. The qualification of Plato's philosopher king are as follows:
First, he must have a definite knowledge of the principles by which he is guided. The perception of the principles by guardians is of vital importance.
Second, the guardians must have a boundless curiosity for new experience. This does not mean that every one who has thie qualification is a born philospher.
Third, da true philosopher must have a detailed knowledge. Plato is so much impressed with this principle that he sets apart fifteen years for the purpose of acquiring a detailed knowledge of the administration of the state by the guardians.
Fourth, a philosopher must have passion for truethfulness. he will never tolerate willingly untruth. he will not love falsehood. he will aim at the whole truth and such a man is self-controlled.
Fifth, he must have courage. Since he is not afraid of life nor influenced by greediness and meanness and since he is free from every sort of ambition or passion, he is free from fear. The one thing which he cares for is jsutice.
Sixth, a philosopher must have a quick and retentive memory. he must love learning and possess a short ofmental symmetry or proportion. he is the spectator of all time and of all things. To sum up, a philosopher is a lover of knowledge.