A student is writing an essay on Plato’s The Republic, focusing on his views regarding societal decay. The student asserts that Plato argues that in a just city, the enforcement of laws must be strict, and that allowing small acts of lawlessness is dangerous because they inevitably lead to greater chaos.
Which quotation from a scholar’s analysis of The Republic would best uphold the student's assertion?
"Plato warns that 'Lawlessness easily creeps in unobserved,' explaining that it infiltrates through small diversions and eventually overthrows the entire structure of the state."
"When discussing the guardians of the state, Plato suggests that 'They must not possess private property,' as wealth corrupts the judgment required for leadership."
"Plato argues that 'Democracy arises when the poor win the day,' suggesting that shifts in power are inevitable due to class conflict."
"In his comparison of regimes, Plato notes that 'Tyranny naturally arises out of democracy,' not because of laws, but because of excessive liberty."
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The student argues that Plato believes strict law enforcement is necessary because small infractions lead to chaos. The quote "Lawlessness easily creeps in unobserved... through small diversions and eventually overthrows the entire structure" matches this argument perfectly.
Choice B discusses private property and guardians, not the general enforcement of laws. Choice C discusses the rise of democracy and class conflict. Choice D discusses the transition from democracy to tyranny due to liberty, not the specific mechanism of small legal infractions.