The political value of modesty
Erica Benner
Ancient criticisms of over-educated elitists can show us how to heal our divided democracies.
Menu
Menu
Ancient criticisms of over-educated elitists can show us how to heal our divided democracies.
Today’s free thinkers, frustrated by censorship from above and below, would do well to remember the ways of Machiavelli.
Not all women in ancient Greece benefited from the advent of democracy – but exceptions like Aspasia are a source of inspiration today.
Nicias of Athens sought compromise when those around him were begging for blood – carving his own tomb in the process.
Demagogues thrive if moderate politicians flatter citizens into an unrealistic sense of their own greatness.
The worst form of ignorance in politics is an inflated opinion of one’s own wisdom. In matters of moral judgement, authority-dependence carries grave risks.
Engelsberg Ideas is brought to you by The Axel and Margaret Ax:son Johnson Foundation for Public Benefit
Stureplan 3, SE 103 75 Stockholm, Sweden editors@engelsbergideas.com www.axsonjohnsonfoundation.org
By subscribing, you consent to us contacting you by email. You may unsubscribe at any time, and we’ll keep your personal data safe in accordance with our privacy policy.