comparing and contrasting Plato’s views on democracy with those of Nicolette Bethel

Please write a 4-5 page paper comparing and contrasting Plato’s views on democracy with those of Nicolette Bethel. This essay should have 3-5 citations in either MIA or APA format.

Expert Answer

Plato and Nicolette Bethel both have strong views on democracy, but they differ in their beliefs about its effectiveness as a form of government.

Plato, a philosopher in ancient Greece, believed that democracy was a flawed system because it gave power to the masses, who he believed were not qualified to make important decisions. In his work “The Republic,” Plato argued that a ruling class of philosopher-kings should be the ones to govern society, as they were the only ones capable of understanding the higher truths that were necessary for good governance.

Bethel, on the other hand, is a contemporary Bahamian political theorist who has a more positive view of democracy. In her work “The Promise of Democracy,” Bethel argues that democracy is a necessary form of government because it gives people the opportunity to participate in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. She believes that democracy is the best way to ensure that all voices are heard and that the needs of the people are taken into account.

One key difference between the two thinkers is their belief about the role of the individual in democracy. Plato believed that the individual was less important than the state, and that the needs of the state should take precedence over the needs of the individual. Bethel, on the other hand, sees the individual as being central to the democratic process, and believes that democracy is the best way to ensure that the needs and rights of the individual are protected.

Another difference is their belief about the role of expertise in democracy. Plato believed that only those with specialized knowledge and understanding should be involved in the decision-making process, while Bethel believes that all individuals have something valuable to contribute and should be able to participate in the democratic process.

Overall, while both Plato and Bethel recognize the importance of democracy, they have different views on its effectiveness and the role of the individual in the democratic process. Plato’s elitist view of governance contrasts with Bethel’s more inclusive approach, which values the participation and input of all people.