In Republic Book IV, Plato introduces a new understanding of the human soul that remains “advantageous for each part and for the whole soul, which is the community of all three parts” (442c6-8). Thus we reach a point …show more content…
In order for Socrates to effectively argue for a tripartite soul, means to first acknowledge the existence of a soul divided into two factions, each faction somewhat reliant upon the other. Socrates emphasising the superior and inferior parts of the soul to be reliant on one another. Whereby, the ‘naturally better part’ comes to be known as the unified, rational part. Whilst the ‘worse’ part is exposed as the irrational appetitive part. Ultimately deeming the term, ‘self-control’ to the person who can successfully control the appetitive part and not be overpowered by it. A common question posed of Socrates is what deems the ‘rational’ part of the soul to be naturally better? This question is best answered through the natural human instinct of