Philosophy Now Issue 110 Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What does the word 'democracy' literally mean?

Rule by the elite

Government by philosophers

Authority of the government

Power of the people (correct)

According to the discussion, what is a potential consequence of inaction in a democratic system?

It enhances the power of the elite

It can evolve into tyranny (correct)

It may result in gradual improvement

It leads to greater participation

What does the author suggest about the interpretation of 'people' in the context of democracy?

It can refer to a singular collective entity (correct)

It universally refers to all individuals

It negates the existence of individuality

It implies exclusive groups only

What does Abraham Lincoln's definition of democracy emphasize?

Engagement by the people Signup and view all the answers

In the context of democratic governance, what is a dilemma presented regarding the pursuit of ends by individuals?

Unanimity among individuals is unlikely Signup and view all the answers

What grammatical issue does the author highlight concerning the term 'people'?

It can refer to a singular or plural sense Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the author's view on the necessity of philosopher-citizens in democracy?

They are essential for maintaining democracy Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following concepts is closely related to the definition of democracy as provided?

Collective identity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main capacity that Plato refers to when discussing the cultivation of reason?

The capacity to understand the good order of things Signup and view all the answers

According to Plato, who is best suited to rule justly and wisely?

Philosophers who can see the good order Signup and view all the answers

What must the people cultivate in order to prevent democracy from degenerating into tyranny?

Philosopher-citizens who prioritize the common good Signup and view all the answers

Why is education into political values considered crucial for democracy?

It provides the tools for a healthy citizenry capable of self-governance Signup and view all the answers

What paradox is presented regarding values in a democracy?

The right to pursue personal values supports democracy's ideals Signup and view all the answers

What is Immanuel Kant’s conception of an ideal democratic society called?

The Kingdom of Ends Signup and view all the answers

What does Plato suggest about the relationship between personal good and the good order?

Seeing the good order helps realize one's personal good Signup and view all the answers

What must citizens in a democracy prioritize to ensure its success?

Values consistent with democratic ideals Signup and view all the answers

How does Kant's view of freedom differ from Plato's perspective on democracy?

Plato envisions a society of philosopher-kings. Signup and view all the answers

What is Plato's main argument against democracy?

It can lead to the rise of tyranny. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant believe is necessary for a functional democracy?

An educated citizenry embodying specific virtues. Signup and view all the answers

According to Kant, what constitutes the highest expression of individual freedom?

The respect for the dignity of others. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the educational establishment play in a sound democracy, according to the content?

It should be seen as the 'Fourth Estate' of democracy. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference in the assumptions about citizens between Plato and Kant?

Kant views citizens as potentially moral and intellectual equals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the education necessary for democracy, as argued in the content?

To cultivate moral and intellectual virtues. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant believe about the nature of democracy?

It thrives on educated and moral citizens. Signup and view all the answers

What does Thomas Hobbes suggest is a core aspect of human nature?

The tendency to tyranny Signup and view all the answers

In Kant's theory, what principle must supersede individual interests in a democratic society?

Respect for every citizen's dignity Signup and view all the answers

How does Kant define true freedom in a democratic context?

The capacity to do what is morally right Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between individual citizens in the Kingdom of Ends, according to Kant?

They are simultaneous ends, sovereigns, and subjects Signup and view all the answers

What misapprehension does the appeal of democracy create regarding the role of citizens?

That civic responsibility is optional Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Kingdom of Ends from a society of tyrants?

The mutual respect for individuals as ends Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT associated with Kant's Kingdom of Ends?

Law is based solely on majority rule Signup and view all the answers

According to the concepts discussed, what can undermine the ideals of democracy?

The prioritization of personal desires over communal responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of engaging students in value inquiry during high school?

To help them understand the role of values in guiding conduct Signup and view all the answers

Why is a robust program of value-oriented education deemed essential for democracy?

It fosters the moral and intellectual sophistication of citizens Signup and view all the answers

According to the author, what philosophical education should be at the heart of the public school curriculum?

Ethics or value-centered thinking Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'people' refer to in the context of democracy, as discussed in the content?

Citizens recognizing the common good as part of their private interest Signup and view all the answers

What is Plato's perspective on the role of philosophy in democracy?

It should be central to the cultivation of informed citizenry Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the citizens' roles in a functioning democracy?

They must see the value of societal dignity for personal welfare Signup and view all the answers

What potential outcome is presented regarding the absence of value-oriented education?

It could perpetuate chaos and moral decline Signup and view all the answers

Who can become the 'morally-realized citizen-kings' of Kant's Kingdom of Ends?

Citizens who have undergone philosophical education Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Democracy and Tyranny

Democracy defined as ‘power of the people’ (Greek: ‘demos’ - people, ‘kratos’ - power).
Plato in "Republic" argues that inaction can lead democracy to tyranny; deterioration occurs naturally.
The word ‘people’ can refer to individuals or a collective entity, creating ambiguity in democratic governance.

Human Nature and Democracy

Jefferson stated democracy's principles are "self-evident," but they lack clear roots in human behavior.
Hobbes highlighted human nature as inclined toward tyranny; individual desires often conflict with collective good.
True democracy demands recognition of responsibility toward others, transcending self-interests.

Kant's Kingdom of Ends

Kant describes an ideal society where every individual is both a sovereign and an end-in-themselves.
Respect for others’ dignity must prevail over personal interests for democracy to function.
Individual freedom, according to Kant, involves moral duty and doing what is right, not merely personal gratification.

Philosophers and Education in Democracy

Plato asserts that philosopher-kings, possessing intellect and character, are necessary for just governance.
To prevent tyranny, citizens must embody characteristics of philosopher-kings, necessitating the cultivation of ‘philosopher-citizens’.
Education plays a vital role in developing moral and intellectual virtues essential to a healthy democracy.

The Role of Education

Education must go beyond basic knowledge to actively engage citizens in values inquiry.
Moral and ethical education should be central to a robust democracy, counteracting popular media influences.
The educational system should instill respect for the dignity and freedom of others, fostering a collective good.

The Power of the People

Democracy requires citizens to understand the connection between individual dignity and societal well-being, balancing private and public interests.
An educated citizenry is crucial to uphold democratic values, countering the selfish tendencies inherent in human nature.
Effective democratic governance hinges on individuals recognizing their ethical duties, which can be cultivated through philosophical education.

Conclusion

The term ‘people’ encompasses both individual and collective aspects, necessitating moral sophistication in citizens.
A value-oriented, ethical education is paramount to prevent societal decay and ensure democracy's survival.
Without such education, societies face ongoing strife and injustice, as noted by Plato.

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Description

Explore the ideas of philosopher-kings and the relationship between democracy and tyranny as discussed in Plato's Republic. This quiz delves into Richard Oxenberg's insights on the role of philosopher-citizens in a democratic society. Test your understanding of these philosophical concepts today!