Abstract
Ancient philosophers were often critical of the epistemic features of democratic institutions. In this chapter, I first offer a critical review of the principal institutions of Athenian democracy. I then clarify what I take to be Plato’s central argument against democracy, which turns upon its epistemic failings. I then examine Aristotle’s views about democracy and knowledge and his views concerning the epistemic powers of groups. Finally, I conclude by examining what Hellenistic and post-Hellenistic philosophers had to say about democracy and knowledge.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | The Routledge Handbook of Political Epistemology |
Editors | Michael Hannon, Jeroen de Ridder |
Publisher | Routledge |
Chapter | 1 |
Pages | 13-24 |
Number of pages | 12 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780429326769 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780367345907 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2021 |