Plato on Economic Equality (The "4-to-1 Rule")
In Plato’s Laws (Book V), he argues that in a well-ordered society, no citizen should have more than four times the wealth of the poorest citizen. This is often referred to as the "4-to-1 ratio".
Context:
Unlike The Republic, where Plato imagined a highly philosophical, elite-driven utopia, The Laws presents a more realistic political blueprint for an actual city.
The goal is social harmony, and economic extremes are seen as a major threat to unity.
Key Idea:
“There should exist neither extreme poverty nor excessive wealth among the citizens, for both are productive of great evil.” (Laws, Book V)
To prevent class conflict and envy, private property is allowed, but limited.
Wealth is capped: the richest citizen can own no more than 4 times what the poorest legally owns.
Why 4-to-1?
Plato believed:
Extreme wealth corrupts morals and political life.
Extreme poverty leads to resentment and instability.
A 4-to-1 ratio preserves differences but limits division.