> Skip to content
  • Published: 24 February 2005
  • ISBN: 9780140449846
  • Imprint: Penguin Classics
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 592
  • RRP: $34.00

The Laws




Plato's example of utopia

In the Laws, Plato describes in fascinating detail a comprehensive system of legislation in a small agricultural utopia he named Magnesia. His laws not only govern crime and punishment, but also form a code of conduct for all aspects of life in his ideal state - from education, sport and religion to sexual behaviour, marriage and drinking parties. Plato sets out a plan for the day-to-day rule of Magnesia, administered by citizens and elected officials, with supreme power held by a Council. Although Plato's views that citizens should act in complete obedience to the law have been read as totalitarian, the Laws nonetheless constitutes a highly impressive programme for the reform of society and provides a crucial insight into the mind of one of Classical Greece's foremost thinkers.

  • Published: 24 February 2005
  • ISBN: 9780140449846
  • Imprint: Penguin Classics
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 592
  • RRP: $34.00

Other books in the series

On Sparta
Love
Annals
Military Dispatches

About the authors

Plato Plato

Plato (c. 427-347 BC) founded the Academy in Athens, the prototype of all Western universities, and wrote more than twenty philosophical dialogues.