24 - Plato's Republic 8: The Philosopher Kings

Published: March 29, 2021, noon

b'

This book covers parts of books 5-6 of Plato\\u2019s Republic.

Who should rule the city in speech? Philosophers of course! In this episode, Socrates explains his most famous political proposal: philosopher kings. He wants the leaders to be smart and capable and virtuous. And charming and good-looking. Is that too much to ask?

In a democracy, it is. Socrates doesn't just say what good leaders look like\\xa0 he also says why democracies will never have one. Who\\u2019s to blame for bad democratic politics? Is it corrupt politicians or an ignorant majority? Yes!

Credits:
Adeimantus: Rebecca Amzallag
Glaucon: Zachary Amzallag
Ancient music: Michael Levy
Intro theme: Clayton Tapp
Outro: David Zikovitz
Episode art and editing: Sep\\xa0

Support the show'