Part 3/8:
Another prominent critic, Socrates, articulated his skepticism through metaphors that vividly illustrate the potential pitfalls of mob rule. In the dialogues of Plato’s Republic, he portrayed a state as a massive ship navigating the tumultuous seas of life. He warned that the captain—who is chosen through popular vote—might not always possess the necessary skills for effective leadership. Instead of electing a knowledgeable navigator, the voters may select someone charismatic who makes grand promises, only to steer the vessel toward disaster.