A Fragile Democracy in Developing Countries

Plato argues that humans require a perfect state in which to live, where each individual performs according to their abilities. He envisions the state as having three distinct classes: the philosopher-kings, who are the learned rulers; the warriors, who are trained to defend the state; and the common people, who pursue various professions. This ideal state is characterized by justice, peace, and prosperity. In modern democracies, many classes have emerged, with bureaucracy being one of the most prominent.

Plato believes that excessive freedom can lead individuals and societies to a tyrannical state. Just as the body has a soul, a state also possesses a soul that is shaped by its ruler. The elevation of a person's soul is influenced by their various desires, while the soul of a state is determined by its leader. A tyrant embodies a corrupted soul, indulging in excessive power, wealth, and pleasure, which ultimately deteriorates the essence of the state. A tyrant is weak in heart, soul, and consciousness, becoming increasingly paranoid about his wealth, power, and status.

The pleasure of wisdom and knowledge surpasses the desire for power and wealth. A man of true knowledge does not covet wealth or power. Instead, he seeks the ideal realm of forms.

Democracy can make people timid and encourages them to turn against one another. It can also lead to the rise of a tyrant. Both Plato and Socrates regarded aristocracy as the best form of government. They believed that democracy, tyranny, and noble rule go against human nature and the soul. Democracy, in particular, deprives individuals of their true essence. Similar to a greedy, irrational, and ignorant soul, both tyranny and democracy can be harmful to society.

In contemporary democracies, everyone is a philosopher king, unlike Plato's description of rulers. Politicians would have been considered the leftovers in Plato's Republic.

I want to share a personal experience I had in a democratic country. I initiated some social work and realized that I needed to establish a registered NGO to empower youth, women, and the community as a whole. I visited the social welfare department to learn about the application process. After gathering the necessary information, I prepared a bylaw and submitted it to the office of the Assistant Commissioner. It took two days for my application to be approved. Subsequently, this office issued three letters to the Assistant Inspector General, Senior Superintendent of Police, and the Social Welfare department.

The Assistant Commissioner's office stated that it took months to dispatch these letters to the relevant departments. This means I need to follow up on everything. I took the letters to all these offices and had them signed.

It took me ten days to receive verification from the SSP office. I am coordinating with other departments to obtain their letters. In democracies, the bureaucracy consists of individuals who only perform the tasks assigned to them. They can inadvertently enable tyrants in a state.

As Plato observed, in a democracy, people tend to serve a group that is primarily driven by fear and terror. These individuals are often the most vulnerable, relying on a few trusted leaders while imposing strict censorship. According to Plato's understanding of human nature, politicians are motivated by the pursuit of gain and fame. They become slaves to their desires and personal advantages, attempting to keep others in ignorance of the truth by silencing dissent through fear and oppression.

Weakened souls are affected by money, fame, and sensual desires. A state consists of souls. Those who possess a corrupt soul will corrupt and menace the state.