Imagine a ring that grants its wearer the power of invisibility, a supernatural ability that tempts its beholder with limitless power. This isn’t a tale from a fantasy novel featuring hobbits, dwarves, or Valkyries. Instead, it’s a story that predates them by over 2,000 years, originating from the philosophical dialogues of Plato’s “Republic”.
The story of the Ring of Gyges emerges during a philosophical debate between Socrates and his student, Glaucon. They ponder the reasons behind people’s just actions. Is it because it’s the right thing to do, or is it a societal convention enforced through punishment and reward?
As part of the debate, Glaucon recounts the story of Gyges, a shepherd who stumbles upon a bronze horse containing a golden ring in a chasm opened by an earthquake. This ring, when twirled, grants Gyges invisibility. With this newfound power, Gyges embarks on a path of deceit and treachery, ultimately seizing the throne of Lydia.
Glaucon uses this story to argue that people can benefit from acting unjustly, given the opportunity to do so without consequence. He categorizes all good things into three classes: those desired for their own sake, those desired for their value, and those desired for both. He places justice in the second category, suggesting that people act virtuously due to external influences, not intrinsic values.
Socrates, however, disagrees with Glaucon’s perspective. He believes justice belongs to the third category of good, offering both intrinsic and extrinsic benefits. He proposes that the human soul comprises three parts: reason, spirit, and appetite. Reason, guided by either spirit or appetite, leads an individual to truth and knowledge. A philosopher, led by reason and with their appetite kept in check by their spirit, is the most just and happiest, according to Socrates.
The Ring of Gyges symbolizes the moral dilemma faced when given the opportunity to act without consequence. While Gyges may have gained power and wealth, Socrates implies that his soul would be in disharmony, enslaved to his base desires rather than guided by reason. This philosophical debate continues to inspire, posing the question: If the Ring of Gyges fell into your hands, what would you do?
Organize a debate where you and your classmates are divided into two groups. One group will argue Glaucon’s perspective that people act justly due to societal conventions and external influences. The other group will defend Socrates’ view that justice is intrinsically valuable and leads to a harmonious soul. Prepare your arguments using examples from the story of Gyges and other historical or contemporary scenarios.
Write a short story imagining you find a modern version of the Ring of Gyges. Describe the ethical dilemmas you face and the decisions you make. Reflect on how the power of invisibility affects your actions and whether you align more with Glaucon’s or Socrates’ views on justice.
Keep a journal for a week where you reflect on your daily actions and decisions. Consider whether you act justly because of societal expectations or because you believe it is inherently the right thing to do. At the end of the week, write a summary comparing your reflections to the philosophical arguments presented by Glaucon and Socrates.
Create a role-playing game scenario where you and your classmates take on the roles of characters in the story of Gyges. Each player must make decisions based on the power of invisibility and face the consequences of their actions. Discuss how the game outcomes reflect the philosophical themes of justice and power.
In small groups, discuss Socrates’ concept of the tripartite soul. Identify examples from literature, history, or personal experiences that illustrate the roles of reason, spirit, and appetite in guiding human behavior. Present your findings to the class and explore how these examples support or challenge Socrates’ argument about justice and happiness.
power – the ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way – The king’s power over his subjects was absolute.
morality – principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior – His strong sense of morality prevented him from cheating on the test.
invisibility – the state of not being able to be seen – The magician’s trick involved making objects disappear and reappear with invisibility.
philosophical debate – an intellectual discussion or argument about fundamental principles or beliefs – The philosophers engaged in a lively philosophical debate about the nature of reality.
justice – the quality of being fair and reasonable – The judge ensured that justice was served by giving a fair sentence to the criminal.
societal convention – an accepted and established way of behaving or doing things within a society – It is a societal convention to shake hands when greeting someone.
punishment – the infliction or imposition of a penalty as retribution for an offense – The criminal received harsh punishment for his crimes.
reward – something given or received in return for one’s efforts or achievements – He received a monetary reward for winning the competition.
deceit – the action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth – She used deceit to manipulate others into doing what she wanted.
treachery – betrayal of trust; deceptive action or nature – The knight’s act of treachery led to the downfall of the kingdom.
