The Transition from Evil to Good in The Works of Augustine and Plato

The transition from evil to good is a profound theme explored by both St. Augustine and Plato in their respective works. Their philosophies illuminate the evolution of moral understanding and the intrinsic link between knowledge, goodness, and happiness. This essay delves into how both thinkers articulate this transition, emphasizing that ignorance often serves as the root of evil, while wisdom and the pursuit of truth guide individuals toward goodness and fulfillment.

Augustine's Perspective on Evil and Goodness

In Augustine's "Confessions," he presents a compelling argument that equates God with truth, suggesting that the pursuit of truth is synonymous with the pursuit of God. Augustine reflects on his past sins, acknowledging his awareness of their wrongness yet admitting his ignorance regarding their implications. He states, "Could I enjoy doing wrong for no other reason than that it was wrong?" (p. 50). This acknowledgment of ignorance reveals a pivotal aspect of his journey toward redemption. Augustine’s realization that true happiness is found in the pursuit of God illustrates a transformative progression from sin to faith.

As Augustine deepens his understanding of God, he simultaneously enhances his wisdom, which leads to a reduction in sinful behavior. He notes, "So, step by step, my thoughts moved on from the consideration of material things to the soul" (p. 151). This intellectual journey emphasizes that as one gains insight into the nature of good and evil, one becomes less susceptible to the allure of sin. Augustine's transition is marked by a gradual awakening to the truth, culminating in his embrace of Christianity and a commitment to living a life aligned with divine goodness.

Plato's Exploration of Beauty and Wisdom

Similarly, in Plato's "Symposium," Diotima presents a vision of love as a pursuit of beauty and knowledge. She argues that true beauty is not merely physical but encompasses wisdom and virtue. The journey toward understanding beauty is a multi-step process: first, one must seek beauty in oneself, then recognize it in others, and ultimately appreciate the beauty of the soul and, finally, the beauty of knowledge itself. This progression illustrates that ignorance is the barrier to achieving true goodness.

Alcibiades’ actions, as discussed in the "Symposium," initially appear to contradict Diotima's teachings. His misguided choices, such as defacing the statues of gods, reflect a profound ignorance of true wisdom. Socrates points out that Alcibiades lacks genuine understanding, as he attempts to trade wisdom for superficial desires. This exchange underscores the idea that individuals often pursue what they mistakenly believe to be good, not recognizing that their ignorance leads them to choose evil over true fulfillment. Plato emphasizes that the journey toward wisdom is essential for transcending ignorance and embracing goodness.

The Interconnection of Knowledge and Morality

Both Augustine and Plato articulate a common theme: the journey from evil to good is inextricably linked to the acquisition of knowledge. In "Menos," Socrates posits that individuals often desire what they perceive as good, despite it being evil, due to a lack of understanding (p. 203). This assertion reinforces the notion that moral clarity arises from wisdom. For Augustine, recognizing the glory of heaven and the futility of sin is paramount in choosing the path of righteousness. For Plato, the pursuit of immortality and goodness is inherently tied to one’s ability to discern true beauty and knowledge.

Table: Comparison of Augustine and Plato on Evil and Goodness

The Ongoing Journey Towards Goodness

Both Augustine and Plato recognize that the quest for truth and goodness is a lifelong endeavor. Diotima’s teachings on love highlight that the ultimate goal is an ever-elusive cosmic love, while Augustine’s progression toward faith illustrates a continuous search for understanding. Despite achieving a deeper awareness of goodness, both thinkers acknowledge the human condition's imperfection and the perpetual struggle against sin.

In conclusion, the transition from evil to good, as articulated by Augustine and Plato, underscores the importance of wisdom and knowledge in moral development. Their works remind us that the journey toward goodness is not a destination but an ongoing pursuit. As individuals seek truth, they must also confront their ignorance, allowing them to move closer to genuine happiness and fulfillment. The insights of Augustine and Plato remain relevant today, encouraging a continual striving for wisdom in our quest for a moral life.

Bibliography

• Saint Augustine. Confessions. Trans. R.S. Pine-Coffin. London: Penguin Classics, 1961.
• Plato. Symposium. Trans. Alexander Nehamas & Paul Woodruff. Indianapolis & Cambridge: Hackett Publishing Company, 1989.
• Plato. Menos.