Warnings against optimistic overreaching run deep in many traditions, but humans nevertheless keep finding excuses to cast caution to the winds. But the true value of progress and even the very idea of its desirability are debatable.
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.
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