964–965
Athenian
Ath. Evidently we are comparing the State itself to the skull; and, of the wardens, the younger ones, who are selected as the most intelligent and nimble in every part of their souls, are set, as it were, like the eyes, in the top of the head, and survey the State all round;
Ath. and as they watch, they pass on their perceptions to the organs of memory,—that is, they report to the elder wardens all that goes on in the State,— while the old men, who are likened to the reason because of their eminent wisdom in many matters of importance, act as counsellors, and make use of the young men as ministers and colleagues also in their counsels, so that both these classes by their co-operation really effect the salvation of the whole State. Is this the way, or ought we to contrive some other? Should the State, do you think, have all its members equal instead of having some more highly trained and educated?
Clinias
Clin. Nay, my good sir, that were impossible.
Athenian
Ath. We must proceed, then, to expound a type of education that is higher than the one previously described.
Clinias
Clin. I suppose so.
Athenian
Ath. Will the type which we hinted at just nowPlat. Laws 962e, Plat. Laws 963b ff. prove to be that which we require?
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