CodalSearch this book — or all of Codal…⌘K
Projects
Sign inStart a book
nydus/A History of Greek Economic ThoughtPublic

This volume provides a reinterpretation of Greek economic theory by examining the relationship between ancient thought and modern humanitarian economy. The text analyzes Greek economic ideas within the context of the contemporary economic environment and provides a bibliography of relevant scholarly works.

Page 59 of 396
Table of Contents

CHAPTER III PLATO

whom modern socialism is especially concerned, are not directly touched by his system. Again, the primary motive of Plato’s communism is not the modern motive at all. His thought is not to secure a just share for all in the products of industry. Though he recognizes the importance of providing against the evils of extremes of wealth and poverty,312 the motive is not the material interest of any class. It is an intense desire for unity and for escape from civic strife in the state,313 for provision against graft, corruption, and tyranny in the rulers,314 and for insuring as efficient work as possible.315 Like Ruskin, Plato is no democrat. Equality is not in his thought.316 Unlike many a modern socialist, he realizes that absolute arithmetical equality is impossible, and that if gained it would be the greatest injustice. He knows that the true equality must be proportional, demanding not that each receive exactly the same, but that each receive his due.317 His third class, comprising a large majority of the citizens, is practically without political activity, a fact in marked contrast to the modern social-democratic spirit. His emphasis is not economic and material, as is that of modern socialism, but political and moral.318

59