Plato's Virtue Theory says that if someone acts in the
right way, then they will be truly happy and fulfilled. (i.e morality entails self interest.)
Plato set aside 4 virtues that he believed if followed by everyone in a society would lead to a just and harmoniously functioning society.
4 Virtues and
Individual &
Society
Society
4 Virtues
Plato believed that the harmony and balance of a philospher should be reflected in society.
He believed that reasons should rule, spirit should provide courage and self-control, and desire should be limited to the satisfaction of needs. (the tripartite division of everybodies soul is satisfied; this links back to morality entailing self interest)
these 4 virtues are:
1) Wisdom
2) Courage
3) Moderation
4) Justice
The first 3 correspond to the tripartite division of the soul, whilst justice is the consequence of
following these first 3.
The Individual
Is said to be of balance and harmony if s/he follows these 4 virtues. A philosopher in theory should then live a balanced and harmonious life because they are not dominated by desire or spirit (Plato believed philosophers should be kings!)