Lecture on Democracy and Philosophy in Ancient Greece

Introduction

• Ancient Athens, known for democracy and philosophy.
• Parthenon as a symbol of democratic values.
• Contrast between philosophy’s suspicion towards democracy.

Socrates’ Views on Democracy

• Socrates, the founding father of Greek Philosophy, was skeptical of democracy.
• Portrayed by Plato as pessimistic about democracy.

Analogy of Society and a Ship

• Plato's Republic: Socrates compares society to a ship.
• Questions who should be in charge of a vessel – experts or just anyone?
  • Conclusion: Only those educated in governance should vote, much like only experienced sailors should manage a ship.

Voting as a Skill

• Voting considered a skill that requires systematic education.
• Socrates’ warning: Letting uneducated citizenry vote is irresponsible.

Socrates’ Trial and Execution

• 399 BC: Socrates was tried on charges of corrupting youth.
• Jury of 500 Athenians found him guilty, leading to his execution.
• His death highlighted as tragic and parallel to Jesus’s condemnation.

Intellectual Democracy vs. Democracy by Birthright

• Socrates wasn’t elitist but believed in voting by the wise.
• Distinction: Intellectual democracy vs. democracy by birthright.
• Modern democracy lacks connection to wisdom, leading to demagoguery.

Demagoguery and Historical Examples

• Ancient Athens experienced demagoguery through figures like Alcibiades.
• Alcibiades: Charismatic yet damaging to Athens’ freedom and military decisions.

Election Debate Analogy

• Socrates uses analogy of election debate: Doctor vs. Sweet Shop Owner.
• Sweet Shop Owner offers easy answers, Doctor offers beneficial but difficult truths.
• Audience tends to favor the Sweet Shop Owner, highlighting flaws in democracy.

Conclusion

• Socrates warned of the dangers of uneducated democracy leading to demagoguery.
• Modern societies often elect 'sweet shop owners' over 'doctors'.
• Importance of education systems in ensuring effective democracy.