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Abstract: Socrates’s critiques of democracy, as
articulated in Plato's Republic and
other dialogues, offer profound insights into the inherent vulnerabilities of
democratic systems. He posited that the lack of wisdom, knowledge, and moral
integrity among leaders and citizens could lead to the collapse of democratic
governance, as the masses are often swayed by popular opinion rather than sound
reasoning. This research paper delves into Socrates’ concerns regarding the
fragility of democracy and examines contemporary efforts to address these
weaknesses. The study highlights the role of education in cultivating wisdom,
the importance of specialized knowledge in decision-making, and the necessity
of moral integrity in political leadership. Statistical analysis of modern democratic systems reveals a
correlation between the lack of informed voting and the rise of populism, which
often undermines democratic ideals. According to a 2020 report by the Pew
Research Center, only 37% of Americans felt that political leaders adhered to
strong ethical standards, with an alarming 55% citing corruption as a major
concern (Pew Research Center, 2020). Additionally, a 2019 study by the
Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) found that nations scoring lower on measures
of education and knowledge had weaker democratic resilience, with increasing
susceptibility to authoritarian movements. This paper proposes that a renewed
focus on education for wisdom and ethical leadership can mitigate these
vulnerabilities. By incorporating Socratic principles into modern democratic practices emphasizing critical thinking, informed decision-making, and moral accountability, this research outlines strategies for enhancing the wisdom and integrity of both leaders and citizens. Ultimately, the paper argues that only through the cultivation of these qualities can democracy be protected from the pitfalls identified by Socrates and continue to thrive in the 21st century. DOI: https://doi.org/10.51505/IJEBMR.2025.9208 |
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