Republic Response - 9/12/11

The Guardians of Plato's society must be truly noble, god-fearing men. As all outside influences constantly shape our scope of being and understanding, it is imperative that all these factors are censored appropriately as to properly construct said Guardians. Music, being a powerful and universal tool of expression, must have no ill-will in it's representation of self. To raise a man fit to defend a city calls upon only the most triumphant and powerful scores that still contain a humble sense of moderation, as to prevent turmoil between the Guardians and citizens themselves. If too empowering, the music may arise "God" within the Guardians, who in turn won't submit to rule. If too soothing, the Guardians may lack innate desire to defend, leaving the city exposed. Plato's views of music as a fundamental building block for psychological development assumes the human as a blank slate creature, at least in this context. It also seems to relate music as a voice of God. Though we know it's by human hand and air of lung, he gives a divine sense of apparition and control to the contexts of our creation.