Recently, I've been delving into PLATO's classic, THE REPUBLIC. Not by design. I just ended up there, remembering some of his lessons from another time. It made me remember that all we are experiencing in the world is not new. Oh, the stakes are different and perhaps higher and more dangerous, but the leadership failings, the greed, poor judgment, public indifference, apathy and frustration of what to do seems to be much the same. It seems that THE CAVE is full of citizens shackled to the past and not seeing a way to change things through their own consciousness and action.
Just being enlightened by PLATO's insights into society and government seemed comforting. I share a few of PLATO's "pearls and gems" of wisdom. See if any of these sound familiar to you...
How do tyrants emerge?
The people have always some champion whom they set over them and nurse into greatness...This and no other is the root from which a tyrant springs; when he first appears he is a protector.
What is the natural reaction to EXCESS?
Excess generally causes reaction, and produces a change in the opposite direction, whether it be in the seasons, or in individuals, or in governments.
Who needs laws?
Good people do not need laws to tell them to act responsibly, while bad people will find a way around the laws.
What happens when a nation is divided?
Nothing can be more absurd than the practice that prevails in our country of men and women not following the same pursuits with all their strengths and with one mind, for thus, the state instead of being whole is reduced to half.
What is the penalty for citizen indifference toward politics and public affairs?
One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.
What's the harm in listening to political rhetoric without thinking yourself?
Rhetoric is the art of ruling the minds of men.
Where does JUSTICE in life and government begin?
Justice in the life and conduct of the State is possible only as first it resides in the hearts and souls of the citizens.
What's PLATO's call-to-action for us all?
I exhort you also to take part in the great combat, which is the combat of life, and greater than every other earthly conflict.
Where can we go from here?
Debbe Kennedy
Founder, Global Dialogue Center
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