Modern Philosopher Kings
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Explores modern attempts to resolve the enduring question of the philosopher king whether it is possible to combine wisdom and power to secure justice
Examines the extent to which politics is open to philosophy, and whether philosophy is always salutary for politics
Theoretically rich, examining the philosophical origins of the paradox of philosopher king and how it manifests itself in diverse ways and in different domains in modern and contemporary politics
Wide-ranging in its approach, exploring through six studies the attempts to combine wisdom and power in the form of the prophet, the intellectual, artist, the hidden advisor, the scientist and finally the wise sovereign people
Examines the extent to which writing in the form of philosophical works and as laws and constitutionalism can overcome the limits to individual philosopher kings
Can wisdom and power, philosophy and politics be combined to secure justice? Or are there formidable tensions, even antagonism between them? Socrates presented the philosopher king as an aspiration, a remedy for the ills of the world. He also called it a paradox, a challenging and perplexing innovation. Ever since, the philosopher king has been an enduring and fascinating question as well as a political aspiration. Modern Philosopher Kings examines the philosopher king as a paradox and an ambitious modern project. Through a series of diverse studies ranging from the prophet, intellectual, artist, advisor, scientist and 'the people' it examines modern attempts to unite wisdom and power. In doing so it reveals the different ways and the extent to which wisdom can be empowered and power ennobled.
Haig Patapan is a Professor in the School of Government and International Relations at Griffith University. His research examines the theory and practice of democracy. He is the author of Modern Philosopher Kings (EUP 2023).