Book Club with Jeffrey Sachs Season 4, Episode 11: James Romm, Plato and the Tyrant
Plato's Political Engagement Shapes Philosophy
- Plato actively engaged in real politics in Syracuse, not just theoretical philosophy.
- His political experiences deeply shaped his writing of The Republic and The Laws.
Plato's Real-Life Political Drama Trying to Turn a Tyrant into a Philosopher-King
Plato embarked on a dramatic political experiment by traveling to Syracuse to attempt to transform the autocratic ruler Dionysius into a philosopher-king, embodying the ideals he explored in "The Republic." His journey spanned three visits over several decades, during which he faced political turmoil, including being sold into slavery and placed under house arrest.
Plato's close ally, Dion, the brother-in-law of Dionysius, played a key role in facilitating the philosopher's engagement with the court, but factional court politics and jealousy ultimately led to Dion’s banishment and intensified Plato’s difficulties.
These experiences deeply influenced Plato’s later writings; after failing to realize his ideal in practice, he composed "The Laws," advocating a more sober, realistic approach to governance.
This story vividly illustrates the challenge of applying philosophical ideals to practical politics and the persistent quest for justice and virtuous leadership in turbulent times.
Syracuse: Greek Power After War
- Syracuse, a powerful Greek city-state in Sicily, had risen after the Peloponnesian War weakened mainland Greece.
- Plato saw it as an opportunity for political reform with a ruler holding absolute power.
