Lauren's Plato reponse

It is tempting to interpret Plato’s Allegory of the Cave in terms of enlightenment. Indeed, Plato’s own stance on the subject was that it spoke about a higher understanding of the good in the universe: ascension from the mundane to the profound. But I do not believe it needs to be interpreted in such a deeply spiritual or philosophical way. Plato’s own point in the story is that the common people--those below his philosopher kings--can not comprehend the deeper understanding of the world that is revealed, or discovered, by the philosophers. This theme runs through every major belief system: some are better equipped to comprehend certain truths in the world and pass it on to the rest of us. However, the true importance of Plato’s work is not about enlightenment. It is about being willing to seek out and accept truth that is right before us.

The chains are a convenient visual, but ultimately an excuse for a willful ignorance. We all possess the ability to turn our heads and walk outside at any moment. There aren’t any chains, only a refusal to look at the world objectively. We willfully blind ourselves and shroud our perception of the world in a half-reality by filtering everything we see and experience through our own beliefs and convictions.

People do not like truth. It’s that simple. There is no higher understanding of the universe, only acceptance that the universe is utterly neutral and objective--characteristics humans are unable to achieve in their entirety. Philosophy puts much emphasis on the relationship between the teacher and the student, but in the end, I believe there are only two lessons a teacher can give to a student. The first is to question everything, and the second is that we can never escape the subjectivity of human thought. Instead of seeking enlightenment, seek awareness.