# The Laws

Canonical: https://www.bookquiver.com/platone/the-laws/9780140449846

![The Laws](https://quivercdn.com/covers/penguin-classics/plato/the-laws_978-01-4044-984-6.jpg?v=2026-04-23%2006%3A20%3A05)

- Book: [The Laws](https://www.bookquiver.com/platone/the-laws) ([The Laws.md](https://www.bookquiver.com/platone/the-laws.md))
- Authors: [Platone](https://www.bookquiver.com/platone)
- Publisher: penguin_classics
- ISBN: 978-01-4044-984-6
- Pages: 592
- Published: 2005-01-27
- Language: en_GB
- Binding: Softcover

## Description

In the Laws, Plato describes in fascinating detail a comprehensive system of legislation in a small agricultural utopia he named Magnesia. His laws not only govern crime and punishment, but also form a code of conduct for all aspects of life in his ideal state - from education, sport and religion to sexual behaviour, marriage and drinking parties. Plato sets out a plan for the day-to-day rule of Magnesia, administered by citizens and elected officials, with supreme power held by a Council. Although Plato's views that citizens should act in complete obedience to the law have been read as totalitarian, the Laws nonetheless constitutes a highly impressive programme for the reform of society and provides a crucial insight into the mind of one of Classical Greece's foremost thinkers.