Who’s Plutus
Plutus is a figure from Greek mythology, embodying the concept of wealth and abundance. His character and portrayal evolved over time, reflecting the Greeks’ attitudes towards wealth and its influence.
- Origins and Role: Plutus is typically described as the god of wealth. He was believed to be responsible for bestowing riches and prosperity upon individuals. His influence was not just limited to material wealth but also extended to agricultural bounty.
- Depiction: In early depictions, Plutus was portrayed as a generous, benevolent figure who distributed wealth without discrimination. However, in later traditions, particularly in the works of the playwright Aristophanes, Plutus is depicted as blind, symbolizing the indiscriminate and often unjust distribution of wealth—wealth could come to both the good and the bad, without discernment.
- Parentage and Mythology: In some myths, Plutus is said to be the son of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, and Iasion, a hero with divine ancestry. This parentage links him to agricultural fertility and abundance. In other accounts, he is the child of Hades and Persephone, tying him more directly to the wealth of the earth, like precious metals and gems.
- Cultural Significance: The character of Plutus reflects the complex view of wealth in ancient Greek culture. On one hand, wealth was seen as a sign of divine favor and prosperity. On the other, there was an acknowledgment of its potential to corrupt and its often arbitrary distribution among people.
Plutus, therefore, is more than just a mythical figure; he represents the ancient Greeks’ understanding and attitude towards wealth, both as a source of prosperity and a force with moral ambiguity.
Plutus— god of wealth.
kret— insight, intelligence, strength.
Etymology of ploutos and kratos
The etymology of “ploutos” and “kratos,” the Greek roots for the word “plutocracy,” is quite fascinating:
- Ploutos: In Ancient Greek, “πλοῦτος” (ploutos) means “wealth” or “riches.” This term is often associated with material wealth and abundance. It’s interesting to note that in Greek mythology, Plutus was the god of wealth, and he was believed to bestow riches upon people.
- Kratos: The word “κράτος” (kratos) in Ancient Greek signifies “power” or “rule.” It’s a term that’s frequently found in the context of authority and governance. The concept of “kratos” is central to many forms of government indicated in compound words, like democracy (rule by the people), aristocracy (rule by the best or nobility), and, of course, plutocracy (rule by the wealthy).
The combination of these two words in “plutocracy” creates a term that literally translates to “the rule or power of wealth,” aptly describing a system where financial wealth is the primary basis of power and influence in governing structures.
Ploutos: wealth, kratos— power.
Plutocracy is a form of government where the wealthy hold the power and influence. It’s derived from the Greek words “ploutos” (wealth) and “kratos” (power, rule). In a plutocracy, the ruling class is made up of the richest members of society. Their wealth enables them to have significant influence over political decisions, either directly or indirectly.
From a philosophical perspective, plutocracy raises interesting questions about the nature of power, justice, and equality. It challenges the ideals of democratic governance where every citizen ideally has an equal voice. In a plutocracy, the balance of power tilts heavily towards those with financial resources, leading to potential conflicts of interest and a governance system that may prioritize the needs and desires of the wealthy over the common good.
This concept also intersects with themes of innovation and entrepreneurship. In societies leaning towards plutocracy, entrepreneurs with successful businesses can gain significant political influence. This raises questions about the relationship between economic success and political power, and whether this relationship supports or undermines the overall health and fairness of a society.