The Art of Manliness website broadcasted What Plato’s Republic Has to Say About Being a Man on April 3, 2019.
This podcast was shared with me from a member of my personal Board of Directors. For those not familiar with this concept I encourage you to read the Harvard Business Review’s article, Forget Mentors: Employ a Personal Board of Directors.
Often history, more specifically, historical events are cited as a path to learning and a means of preparation for future complexities. In reality though, how many of us take the time to read those histories or truly examine the details surrounding particular events for application today. While I believe that examination of our past is worth of time and energy that belief is not always transformed into action. However, a couple weeks ago I was introduced to episode #496 in The Art of Manliness podcast with ever interesting topic of Ancient Greece and how their thoughts and actions are applicable today. Professor of philosophy, Jacob Howland spends one hour covering Socrates, his impact on thinking, and what his journey can teach us about manliness.
For those not familiar with Plato’s The Republic, his text is more like reading literature than dissecting language and philosophy while pondering algebra. His text differs in that he makes the philosopher the center of the story as opposed to the philosophy which, to me, helps to illustrate key points within his stories.
Brett McKay, the podcasts host and website founder brings the discussion surrounding Plato’s The Republic to a wonderful conclusion an intended outcome the “The Republic teaches us of the need to possess not only physical courage, but the courage to think for oneself and stand up for one’s beliefs.”
This is a conversation worth your investment. Sit in your favorite chair, mix your favorite beverage and immerse yourself!