Angela Hobbs, a philosophy professor, Lisa Irene Hau, a classics lecturer, and Paul Cartledge, an expert in Greek culture, dive into the Mytilenaean Debate from 427 BC. They explore Athenian democracy's moral dilemmas as Athens reconsidered a brutal decision against Mytilene. The conversation includes Thucydides' insights on governance and power dynamics, and contrasting arguments of Cleon and Diodotus, highlighting the nuances of justice and self-interest in ancient political discourse. The fate of a second ship and its implications adds a gripping layer to this historical event.
