The Concept of Ideal Society

Different religious and spiritual studies represent various models of the ideal society. Analyzing the ancient texts, it is possible to observe certain differences in the definition of a good society. Many philosophers expressed different ideas and opinions about the main aspects of a successful society. At the same time, we can notice some similar features, typical for all studies. It means that the perfect society consists of some essential, basic characteristics and their combination. In fact, the concept of the ideal society includes the following notions.

Hammurabi suggests that the ideal society is based on the principle of justice and strong, authoritative power. These are the key points, determining the accomplishment of the human society. He emphasizes the role of leadership in the life of individuals and the necessity to perform leading skills in order to control the whole society. This thought has also found its reflection in Socrates’ words. The philosopher also pays attention to the way the society is regulated and managed. According to his point of view, an ideal society consists in the strong governing and meeting the individuals’ needs. In fact, a personal satisfaction of individuals’ demands is a basic element of the good society. Thucydides, Confucius and other philosophers agree with this idea as well.

At the same time, we can observe different approaches to the ideal society in different religions. For instance, there are some differences in the treatment of the good society according to the Confucianism and Islam. Confucius supposes that the ideal society is formed by separate individuals, who try to satisfy their needs and find the sense of the earthly life. The philosopher believes it is quite important to support all the citizens with the needed love, respect and trust. In this case, it will become possible to reach general harmony, security and unity. People should pay attention to the surroundings in order to create a good place for living.

Additionally, Confucianism pays special attention to the social relations. Thus, it is very important to maintain appropriate inter-social relationships, which are based on the notions of poetry, rituals and history. Furthermore, a good society should include strong government, which can persuade people and set peace in their hearts. It is important to direct the people by means of laws, unify them by means of punishments, and they will become evasive and moreover will have no sense of shame. Thus, one can see that strong government, preservation of social relations and satisfaction of demands are key points of the ideal society in Confucianism.

Speaking about the Islamic studies, it is important to emphasize the role of the family. In fact, the Koran pays special attention to the relations within families and between the relatives. According to it, only true, honest and frank relations in families can build ideal society. Allah said to be kind to your parents…and treat them with humility. On the contrary to Confucianism, Islam does not view strong government as a main component of the good society. It believes the citizens can form the ideal society even without a strong leader. In order to reach this aim, it is enough to be kind to others and render to those in need, and to the travelers.

To sum up, there are different approaches to the ideal society. However, in all cases we can observe the exceptional role of the citizens in their own well-being. Therefore, it is important to live in peace and harmony with others in order to create the paradise on the Earth.

Article was written by Betty Bove, a professioanl writer at https://perfectwritings.com/