Plato's discussion of the different types of government in Book VIII caught my eye the most for several reasons, the greatest of which is how he places avarice at the root of the decline of each government.

Given that Athenians are known for democracy, it is also striking that Plato places that among the most easily corrupted forms of government. However, following the root cause of corruption, one can easily see how the democracy is more open to be corrupted. By allowing the few to influence the votes of the many, democracy is compromised. In the view of Plato, democracy is only as good as its citizens. When there is inequity, the lower class becomes dependent on the upper class, creating a situation in which they either compromise integrity for needs, or suffer for integrity. In Plato's eyes, they will almost assuredly compromise. But behind this compromise, there is greed driving the upper class. They are the ones who can afford to help, but their greed will extend beyond the monetary and lead into a hunger for power. This contrasts greatly with the typical egalitarian view of democracy as the tyrant slayer.

When viewed in contrast with the Timocracy of Sparta, it becomes even more peculiar from an Athenian stand point. Given that it is the Spartan way, one would think that it would be less favorable. However, it is the ideal situation for a guardian. one must earn his way there. The downfall comes when one ceases to prove his merit and sits on his laurels.

The underlying issue with both of these contrasting forms of government are the ways in which corruption comes to exist. It is not inherent in the workings or the structure of the political system, but comes about as a flaw within the people. Plato seems to rail against complacency and the desire for manipulations of others. When one looks at what makes a good philosopher in his eyes, it is easy to find other examples. The philosopher in the cave can never be complacent to have seen the light without sharing it, and the manipulating influences are exposed as mere shadows. For Plato, the good soul is content with his station, but never complacent. He does not desire beyond his means or what he deserves, but he does strive toward wisdom. More than anything, the philosopher sees other people as souls which are not to be mistreated.