Single Idea 2132

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 2. Leaders / d. Elites]

Full Idea

Unless communities have philosophers as kings, or the people who are currently called kings and rulers practise philosophy with enough integrity, there can be no end to political troubles.

Gist of Idea

Only rule by philosophers of integrity can keep a community healthy

Source

Plato (The Republic [c.371 BCE], 473d)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Republic', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1993], p.193