ipl-logo

Compare Plato's Allegory Of The Cave

1342 Words6 Pages

In this paper, I will evaluate the ‘White Bear’ episode of Black mirror in relation to Plato’s Allegory of the cave. This will include referencing Plato’s allegory in the context of ‘white bear’ and using Plato’s theory of forms to further explain his allegory. Moreover, I will highlight the similarities and differences between the two, in order to create an in-depth comparison. I will then critically evaluate if the main character in ‘white bear’ is better off knowing the truth of her situation, considering her psychological state, overall health, and perception of reality. Finally, using the knowledge I have gained, as well as my own opinion I will conclude if I would prefer deception or true reality in various situations in modern life. …show more content…

Many believe this answer is simple due to their experience of reality. However, for the prisoners and the main character in white bear true reality is life inside their manufactured environments. Therefore, reality can vary between people. When Plato attempted to educate people on his allegory there were many people who disagreed. These people were said to be comfortable in their ignorance. In basic terms, this means people where happy with their lack of knowledge. When confronted about their lack of knowledge, most people responded with hostility. This behavior was typical during Plato’s era.
Plato’s allegory of the cave is based upon the conception of true reality and manufactured reality. The true form of reality relates to life outside the cave whereas manufactured reality relates to shadows cast against a wall inside the cave. In the case of ‘white bear’ true reality would be life outside the amusement park where as the manufactured reality would be life inside the amusement …show more content…

Knowing that these people are actually not going to kill you will provide some reassurance. I am aware the main character will be in a state of panic and immense stress but knowing your overall fate can offer an end point which she previously was not aware of. Furthermore, knowing why she is in the situation will remove the confusion which she shows at the beginning of the episode. The main character can therefore come to terms of her situation. This way she will realise she is not innocent and only has herself to blame which may be easier to handle than believing someone else has determined her

Open Document