Political Philosophy Introduction to Persecution and the Art of Writing by Leo Strauss (New Series)
Jan 10, 2026
Delve into the dangers of truth in society and how some ideas can harm if revealed. Explore Leo Strauss's life and his unique approach to reading classic texts for deeper truths. Discover the tension between philosophy and community, and how careful writing can protect societal norms. Learn about the challenges posed by modern interpretations of philosophical works and the historical contexts that influenced thinkers. Prepare for a journey into the intricacies of reading texts that may hold hidden arguments and contradictions.
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Dangerous Truths Are A Philosophical Problem
- Leo Strauss frames the problem of philosophy as what to do when truth becomes dangerous for speaker and society.
- He argues seriousness about philosophy requires acknowledging that some truths should not be spoken everywhere without harm.
Strauss's Life Shaped By Persecution
- The speaker recounts Strauss's background: born in Germany, Jewish, shaped by Nazism and emigration to America.
- This life experience explains Strauss's sensitivity to persecution and political danger for thinkers.
Read Texts As Serious Propositions
- Strauss practiced very careful, slow reading rather than abstract methodology.
- He read classic texts as serious propositions about truth, not just historical artifacts.
