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For once in the history of mankind the philosophy of order or

(Greek), expressing and consequently enlisting on its side the

combined endeavours of the better part of the people, obtained

the management of public affairs and held possession of it for a

considerable time (until about B.C. 500). Probably only in States

prepared by Dorian institutions would such a league have been

possible. The rulers, like Plato's (Greek), were required to

submit to a severe training in order to prepare the way for the

education of the other members of the community. Long after the

dissolution of the Order, eminent Pythagoreans, such as Archytas

of Tarentum, retained their political influence over the cities

of Magna Graecia. There was much here that was suggestive to the

kindred spirit of Plato, who had doubtless meditated deeply on

the 'way of life of Pythagoras' (Rep.) and his followers.