There maybe in philosophy, just as well as in anything…
““There maybe in philosophy, just as well as in anything else, a bigotted attachment to certain doctrines and systems, which renders men intolerant and fond of persecution. It rarely, indeed, happens that Plato's wish of seeing philosophy united with sovereign power, can be realized. Plato would be right, if by his philosophy true wisdom is understood, which never can be learned in a school; but the philosophy of a school, united with sovereign power, would assuredly be a most fruitful source of oppression.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Dogmatic attachment to doctrines can breed intolerance and oppression, especially when coupled with power.
In simple terms: Rigid beliefs can cause oppression.
Key Takeaway
Question dogma in power structures.
Themes
philosophy
power
intolerance
oppression
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
Philosophy:1
Plato:1
True wisdom:1
Plato Right:1
Philosophy United:1
Plato Wish:1
Realized Plato:1
When to use this quote
- academic institutions
- government policy
- religious authority
Key Concepts
dogmatism
politics
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can philosophy stay independent of power?
- What safeguards prevent doctrine abuse?
A Different Perspective
Power can also enable positive reform.