An American Political Theorist between History and Utopia.

PLATO, 428-347 B.C.; TOCQUEVILLE, Alexis de, 1805-1859

Allen describes Socratic pedagogy in Plato's I Republic i as follows: "the result of effective teaching will be enactment, and not merely comprehension."[13] In Allen's reading, Plato criticized the Athenian democracy in favor of instituting a more managerial politics.[14] Intriguingly, however, Plato's most memorable image stands in tension with Allen's line of interpretation. The practical, ameliorative shape of Allen's political philosophy prompts me to wonder whether Allen abandons too quickly the "free society" or the "open society" as the highest avatar of democracy. Keywords: history; utopia; Plato; Tocqueville; democratic Athens EN history utopia Plato Tocqueville democratic Athens 865 871 7 10/03/23 20231001 NES 231001 Danielle Allen is known for refashioning diverse traditions, texts, and histories in the service of improving American political life. "Beliefs are rules for action" - to quote Allen quoting James.[8] Danielle Allen's ideas have great practical importance. [Extracted from the article]

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