Judges, Bishops and Philosopher Kings:
A Question of Authority
H
is evidence
In Plato’s THE REPUBLIC, Socrates denounces Athenian democracy and its rule by the unlearned
masses, arguing that only “philosopher kings” possess the wisdom and temperament to govern others.
Today, you would be hard-pressed to find a political or religious leader (in this country) who openly
advocates totalitarian rule by philosopher kings. But, in my opinion, there are those in leadership, both
political and religious, whose policies suggest a preference for rule by such a cadre of elites.
Two controversies prominent in recent news illustrate the point well:
1. the ongoing clash between Senate Republicans and Democrats concerning a handful of
President Bush's conservative judicial nominees; and
2. the unfortunate, looming disintegration of the Episcopal Church USA triggered largely by its
failure to justify theologically the consecration of an openly gay bishop and blessing of
same-sex unions.
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Copyright © 2005 Ramsey Wilson
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