Old School with Shilo Brooks Why We Still Need Plato
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Oct 23, 2025 
Dr. Cornel West, a renowned philosopher and activist, dives into the enduring relevance of Plato's Republic. He passionately explores justice and the dangers of tyranny, linking philosophical inquiry to personal meaning. West critiques the state of American universities, urging a return to Socratic inquiry and the pursuit of truth. The conversation celebrates the integration of ancient wisdom with modern struggles, advocating for a philosophic life that transcends material concerns. Together, they reflect on how these timeless ideas can guide us in today's world.
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Finding Kierkegaard In A Bookmobile
- Cornel West found Kierkegaard at 14 in a bookmobile, which changed his life.
- That early existential encounter shaped his Christian and philosophical formation.
Desperation Drives Plato's Control
- Plato resists nihilism but errs toward coercion like eugenics and surveillance.
- His urgency stems from fearing democratic ignorance and pleasure-driven societies.
Foundations Of Western Thought
- The Republic establishes enduring philosophical distinctions: reality vs appearance, knowledge vs opinion.
- Young thinkers still must wrestle with these distinctions to find meaning and resist deception.
