The Tripartite

We've been talking a lot in class about what is just or moral or right. On page 84, Plato uses what I think is an effective metaphor. He states that justice can be attained if one's mind can be in a harmonious relationship amongst the three parts; Reason, Spirit, and Appetite. This relationship, he says, is similar to that needed in society to have a peaceful and effective society. All parts need to work together in a balanced way to ensure the success of the whole body. In this respect, we can look at the relationship of our own tripartite structures and say that we are responsible for our own successes. If we have the ability and discipline to balance our own minds then we can become just and moral and determine how well we can live the rest of our lives. The example in the book takes one's view on love. With discipline, we can curb the Appetite part of the brain that has a lustful view on love, and develop good and loving relationships apart from the desires of the flesh. The problem brought up in the book is that somebody must be around to teach these correct ways of love, but is it not possible for someone who accomplishes harmony in their soul to learn these ways themselves?