Πράττειν τὰ πολιτικά. La filosofia politica di Socrate e la democrazia

This article aims to focus on what may seem to be a minor aspect of Socrates’ philosophical thought. The objective is to propose certain historical-philosophical considerations that will illuminate the relationship between the philosophical realm and the political sphere within Socratic thought. It is not merely permissible to demonstrate the closeness of this relationship; rather, it seems reasonable to conclude that Socrates’ philosophy possesses an intrinsic political dimension. Socrates’ philosophical perspective, which identifies the megiston agathon with dialogue itself, inherently encompasses a political significance that is closely tied to the life of the polis. A dialegesthai disconnected from the city and its primary moral, and consequently political, concerns would be inconceivable. For Socrates, engagement in politics is possible at the margins of the city, among individuals, as dialogue regarding ethical and political matters can only occur in such ‘intimate’ settings. Through this process, the philosopher seeks to educate the private citizen, who, particularly within a democratic framework, is empowered to influence actively and directly the governance of the polis.