Plato’s stance against excess, and belief in moderation as arete (virtue) is interesting.
Because in the class & virtue system of his Kallipolis
| Class | function (ergon) | virtue (arete) |
| rulers | rule | wisdom |
| guardians | guard | courage |
| producers | produce | moderation |
All the virtues of the other social classes aside from the producers point towards the end of the spectrum. Like the example given in class, the virtue of a car engine is to go fast, a seat is to carry, a chasis to bind. Yet, moderation is something that requires conscious thought. If the same logic carries, wouldn’t productivity or excess be more fitting? That’s more akin to how modern society think producers should do anyways. I don’t think any individuals would prefer to produce less when more is possible. Even if not for a capitalistic pursue of profit, there are always people who are in need of extra product.
But maybe Plato does have a point in that moderation alleviates the need for guardians to supervise the distribution of the resources.