The function of human beings - part one
A conversation with ChatGPT about the controversial foundation for Plato's Republic
Jannik: Are you familiar with the so-called function argument which Socrates gives in book I of Plato's dialogue Republic?
ChatGPT 4.0: Yes, I am familiar with the function argument given by Socrates in Book I of Plato's dialogue Republic. The function argument is a central concept in the discussion of justice in the dialogue. Socrates engages in a conversation with several other characters, including Thrasymachus, Polemarchus, and Cephalus, in order to define and understand the nature of justice.
In the function argument, Socrates proposes that every object or being has a specific function, which it performs well when it possesses the relevant virtues, and poorly when it lacks them. For example, a knife's function is to cut, and a good knife (one that has the virtue of being sharp) performs this function well, while a bad knife (one that is dull) performs it poorly.
Socrates extends this idea to human beings and suggests that each person has a unique function in society, and that the virtues necessary for fulfilling that function are what make someone a good and just individual. This argument is used to counter Thrasymachus' claim that justice is simply the advantage of the stronger, as well as other alternative definitions of justice presented in the dialogue.
The function argument serves as a foundation for the rest of the Republic, as Socrates and his interlocutors explore the ideal state and the roles of its citizens.
Jannik: There seems to be a lot of assumptions about the natural world underlying the idea of functions of human beings. Don't you agree?
ChatGPT: Yes, I agree that there are several assumptions about the natural world underlying the idea of functions of human beings in the function argument presented by Socrates in Plato's Republic. Some of these assumptions include:
1. Teleology: The function argument assumes that there is an inherent purpose or goal (telos) to objects and beings, including human beings. This view, known as teleology, posits that things have an innate function or purpose that they are meant to fulfill.
2. Natural order: Socrates' argument assumes that there is a natural order to the world, with each object and being playing a specific role within that order. This assumption implies that there is an ideal state for each individual, which they can achieve by fulfilling their unique function.
3. Essentialism: The function argument assumes that there are essential qualities or virtues that define the goodness of an object or being. For human beings, this would mean that there are certain virtues that are necessary for the fulfillment of their function and the achievement of their ideal state.
4. Hierarchy: The idea of functions in human beings assumes that there is a hierarchy of roles and virtues, with some roles being more important or valuable than others. In the Republic, Socrates proposes the division of society into three classes: rulers, auxiliaries, and producers, with each class fulfilling a specific function within the ideal state.
These assumptions about the natural world have been subject to criticism and debate over time. Some argue that they are outdated or overly deterministic, while others maintain that they offer valuable insights into the nature of human beings and their place in the world. Nonetheless, the function argument remains an important part of the discussion on ethics and justice in the history of philosophy.
Jannik: The fact that different types of human beings have different functions in the state seems to potentially threaten the strength of the function argument - according to which human beings as such have one function. What do you think?
ChatGPT: You raise a valid concern regarding the function argument in Plato's Republic. Indeed, the idea that different types of human beings have different functions in the state could be seen as potentially weakening the argument that human beings, as a whole, have one specific function.
However, it is important to note that the function argument is not entirely focused on a single, specific function for all human beings. Instead, it serves as a foundation for understanding the broader concept of justice and the organization of an ideal state. In the Republic, Socrates proposes that a just state is one in which each individual fulfills their unique function and contributes to the overall harmony of society. The state's organization into three classes (rulers, auxiliaries, and producers) is a reflection of the diverse functions that individuals can perform.
Moreover, the function argument can be seen as suggesting that there is a higher-level function applicable to all human beings: living a just and virtuous life by fulfilling their individual roles within society. In this sense, the specific functions of different types of people in the state contribute to the overarching function of human beings as a whole, which is to live in accordance with virtue and justice.
So, while the presence of different functions for different types of human beings may appear to challenge the function argument, it can also be viewed as a way to demonstrate the complexity and diversity of human nature and the roles that individuals can play in a just society.
Jannik: Very good answer. Thank you!
ChatGPT: You're welcome! I'm glad you found the answer helpful. If you have any more questions or need further clarification on any topic, please feel free to ask!