All Videos — April 8, 2011

Who are the Philosopher-Kings?

Professor of Political Science, Yale University

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Plato’s notion of the Philosopher-King, guardian of the utopian city of Kallipolis, is a great metaphor for understanding the education of the soul, not a recipe for tyranny.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A collage featuring hands holding a plant, additional hands in sepia tone, a grid background, orange accents, and the text "Reclaim Meaning" with the number 4.

Thinking

How to reclaim meaning in a changing world

What if the barrier to a fulfilled life isn’t technology but culture?

A painting on an easel at the entrance of Plato's cave overlooks misty mountains, with a small fire flickering nearby.

Thinking

Plato’s cave and the stubborn persistence of ignorance

Plato’s cave metaphor illustrates the cognitive trap of ignorance, where we may be unaware of the limitations of our understanding.

A vintage-style illustration of a winged figure falling through the sky, set against a textured red background, surrounded by intricate black and white abstract patterns.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Are scientists involved in a Satanic plot to undermine religion?”

How many scientists does it take to ruin a good conspiracy?

Three sculptures depict philosophers with beards, featuring detailed facial expressions and robes.

Thinking

Confucius vs. Aristotle: What the two philosophers teach us about ethics

Two great philosophies — but do they work better together?

Bronze statue of a bearded man embodying stoicism, riding a horse with one arm extended forward, set against a black background.

Thinking

3 clues that Stoicism is a religion in disguise

All religions have three traits: metaphysical commitments, ethical guidance, and daily rituals or practices. So does Stoicism.

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