Introduction
Philosophers such as Socrates and Plato are often revered as some of the greatest thinkers and political scientists, despite their fundamental opposition to democracy. This paradox is often perplexing, particularly when we consider Plato's critique of democracy as the second-worst form of government, just behind tyranny. But why are these ancient thinkers still so admired and widely read today? This article explores the reasons behind their enduring influence and the enduring appeal of their works.
The Filter of Plato's Mind
Our understanding of Socrates is largely filtered through the lens of Plato's dialogues. In these works, Socrates is the central character, and while the character may or may not fully reflect the real man, his ideas and teachings still resonate with us today. Plato, through his works, delved into profound questions that are still relevant to us today, such as metaphysics, epistemology, and ethical issues. His extensive dialogue The Republic, written around 375 BCE, is a prime example of his philosophical works, focusing on the nature of ideal government. However, it is not necessarily the most beloved or engaging of his writings.
Philosophy: An Unending Quest for Understanding
The essence of philosophy lies in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, rather than the proclamation of absolute truths. As Winston Churchill once said, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Similarly, philosophers don't claim to have solved problems; they only propose solutions. If a problem is deemed solved, it ceases to be a matter of philosophy.
Furthermore, the truth of a solution can never be definitively proved. The very nature of philosophy is to question and seek deeper understanding, which is why it remains a vital field of study, even two and a half millennia after Socrates and Plato.
Plato's View on Democracy
Plato's disenchantment with democracy stems from his belief that it allows the ignorant to rule. His work The Republic provides a detailed analysis of various forms of government, with democracy coming in second to tyranny. It's important to note, however, that Plato is not a political scientist in the modern sense. He is a philosopher who used political theory to explore deeper philosophical questions. His critique of democracy is part of a broader exploration of ideal governments and societal structures.
Other Thinkers Opposed to Democracy
Plato's concerns with democracy are shared by other influential thinkers throughout history. Figures such as Machiavelli, James Madison, Charles Maurras, Aristotle, Edmund Burke, Carl Schmitt, and Nietzsche each have their own criticisms of democratic systems. For example, James Madison, a founding father of the United States, warned against factions that could undermine democratic principles in his famous Federalist Papers. Nietzsche, in his critique of democracy, saw it as a form of mass psychology and a rejection of individuality.
Evidence from History: The Dark Ages and the Renaissance
The enduring influence of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle can also be seen in their impact on Western thought. During the Early Church period, their ideas were adopted and adapted to align with Christian teachings, particularly through the works of Thomas Aquinas. The reference to "The Philosopher" for Aristotle became common, and his thought was used to undermine certain forms of knowledge and reasoning. This period, often referred to as the 'Dark Ages,' was marked by intellectual decline and persecution of thinkers who did not align with the prevailing religious and ideological norms.
The persecution of William of Occam, for instance, highlights the intense scrutiny and harsh treatment that dissenting intellectuals faced during these times. The 'English Inquisition' also serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which authorities would go to silence critical and divergent voices.
Despite these challenges, the ideas of Socrates and Plato continue to inspire and challenge us today. Their enduring relevance lies in their ability to provoke thought and push us to question our assumptions about governance, ethics, and human nature.
In conclusion, the enduring admiration for figures like Socrates and Plato despite their critiques of democracy lies in their ability to pose fundamental questions and challenge existing paradigms. Their philosophical contributions continue to influence modern thought, making them indispensable figures in the history of Western philosophy and political discourse.