Aristotelian Demagoguery, the Rule of Law, and the Need for Civic Education

• In Event: Philosophy and its Place in the City

Brief Overview

This paper critiques recent calls for a neutral view of demagoguery by revisiting Aristotle’s account, arguing that all demagoguery undermines constitutionalism. Aristotle warns that law alone cannot restrain demagogues—civic education is needed.

Author

• Sebastian Graham, Purdue University