An Analysis of the Qualities of an Ideal Society: Essay Example

This essay explores the concept of an ideal society, drawing upon philosophical and political perspectives. It begins by defining the core tenets of an ideal society, emphasizing justice, equality, and effective governance as fundamental pillars. The essay delves into the importance of justice, referencing the fair treatment of all individuals and the establishment of equal rights. It examines the role of equality in fostering a thriving society, highlighting the need for equitable treatment regardless of differences. The essay also discusses the necessity of a competent government that respects the rights and freedoms of its citizens. It references thinkers like Plato, Thomas More, Machiavelli, and historical figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Bob Dylan to illustrate these concepts. Ultimately, the essay underscores the ongoing pursuit of an ideal society and the collective effort required to build a better future.

Running head: QUALITIES OF AN IDEAL SOCIETY
Qualities of an Ideal Society
Student’s Name
University
Author’s note

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QUALITIES OF AN IDEAL SOCIETY
Since the dawn of civilization, human beings have sought after an ideal society, where
people can live without fear and suffering, enjoying a life of harmony, prosperousness and peace.
Numerous thinkers have contributed their ideas and views to the composition of such an ideal
society. Utopia, as scholars have referred to such a society, finds its roots in the writings of the
Ancient Greek thinker Plato, who describes an ideal society in his Republic in accordance with a
perfect utopian model. He mentioned the most three important features of an ideal state are
justice, equality and government (Mason 2014).
The ideal of justice is inherent in every thinkers’ version of ideal society. Justice denotes
the morally fair state of actions and practices in any given society. It paves the way for other
essential qualities namely equality and governance. In simpler words, justice simply means
treating every member of the society fairly and equally.
Thomas More’s canonical work on the same theme, i.e. Utopia describes an ideal society
with the same notion of justice and fairness. Another important aspect of More’s Utopia is its
condemnation of war as a social practice. His protagonist, Raphael Hythloday opines that the
members of Utopia “detest war as a very brutal thing, and which ... is more practiced by men
than by any sort of beasts.” (More 1516). This anti-war ethos was reflected in many upcoming
thinkers and artists’ voice. To point out the futility of war, Bob Dylan, the legendary singer has
also penned the thoughtful lyrics:
“How many times must the cannon balls fly
Before they're forever banned?
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind

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QUALITIES OF AN IDEAL SOCIETY
The answer is blowin' in the wind” (Dylan 1962)
Equality constitutes the framework of an ideal society, subsequent to the ideal of justice.
Every individual in an ideal society should be given their due status and recognition, treating
them irrespective of their gender, race, class or any such demarcation. Else, the society as a
whole cannot flourish to its optimum level. Martin Luther King Jr. has famously said “Injustice
anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”, aptly showing the relation between equality and
justice.
Competent government is also a necessary quality for an ideal society. Machiavelli, the
notable social and political thinker has mentioned in The Prince that virtue is supreme quality of
a ruler, who recognizes and respects the liberties, rights and freedom of the citizens. “His good
example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are
ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example”. (Machiavelli 2008)
It is understandable that no society is perfect. However, they can always strive to achieve
the ideals to build a better future for all of its citizen. This collective effort may someday bring
on earth a utopia, as Lennon hopes (Imagine, Lennon 1971):
You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

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QUALITIES OF AN IDEAL SOCIETY
References
Dylan, Bob. Blowin' in the wind, 1962
Lennon, John. Imagine, 1971
Machiavelli, Niccolò. The prince. Hackett Publishing, 2008.
Mason, Andrew. Plato. Routledge, 2014.
Moore, T. and Stroud, A. Utopia by Sir Thomas Moore: New Writers Edition, 2019