# IX explained — The Story of Utopias

> Chapter companion for The Story of Utopias by Lewis Mumford.

## What happens

This chapter examines Plato's vision for the Guardians in the Republic, focusing on their breeding, education, and disciplined way of life. It discusses the necessity of stripping Guardians of private property, family ties, and personal interests to ensure they remain disinterested and devoted to the common good. The chapter also contrasts the 'normal biological career' of ordinary citizens with the rigorous, communal existence required of the ruling class, and highlights Plato's educational methods, including physical and musical training, play-based learning, and continuous testing.

## Themes in this chapter

### Duality of Human Existence

Explored through the contrast between the 'normal biological career' of ordinary citizens and the self-denying, communal life of the Guardians.

### Community and Social Harmony

Central to Plato's design, as the Guardians must prioritize the common good over private interests to maintain the stability of the state.

### The Role of Ideas and Myths

Plato's educational program and the myth of the metals (implied) are used to justify the class structure and the Guardians' authority.

## Character check-ins

### Plato

Central figure; his design for the Guardians in the Republic is the main subject, including their breeding, education, and communal living.

### Socrates

Implied as the speaker in the Republic, presenting Plato's ideas on the Guardians and the ideal state.

### Benjamin Jowett

Referenced as a commentator who notes that the Republic is a treatise on education.

### John Galsworthy

Mentioned in the context of his play 'Strife' to illustrate how family ties can undermine public duty.

## Key lines

> They are to refrain from using gold and silver, as all the gold and silver they require is in their souls.

The Guardians must not possess precious metals, as their true wealth lies in their inner virtue and wisdom.

_Highlights the material renunciation required for disinterested rule._

> the good, contrary to the proverb, is frequently the enemy of the better; and the little utopia of the family is the enemy—indeed the principal enemy—of the beloved community.

The comfort of family life often obstructs the pursuit of a higher, communal ideal.

_Explains why Plato demands that Guardians abandon private family ties._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se/chapters/ix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se/chapters