Plato: An Oligarchy Is a Society Structured Around Wealth

A wealthy man in ancient Greece represents Plato's description of an oligarchy

How does wealth impact society? What are the consequences of a system where money equals power? In The Republic, Plato explores different societal structures through the character of Socrates. According to Plato, an oligarchy is as a system where wealth determines political power. This concept is part of a larger discussion on the decline of ideal societies. Keep reading to discover why Plato believed oligarchies fall short and how they shape both society and individuals.

Salesforce’s Philanthropy: A Better World Through Business

A blue Salesforce sign

How does Salesforce give back to the world? Why is Salesforce so involved in American politics? Marc Benioff considers society and the global environment two of Salesforce’s chief stakeholders. A couple of ways he addresses social and environmental problems are through a philanthropic program and campaigning for political change to promote minorities’ rights. Discover more about Salesforce’s philanthropy efforts.

Plato: Democracy Is the 4th Best Form of Government

People walking around in a marketplace in ancient Greece illustrates Plato's view of democracy

Is democracy truly the worst form of government, except for all the others? What was Plato’s take on it? According to Plato, democracy leaves a lot to be desired. In The Republic, he presents a thought-provoking critique of democracy through the character of Socrates. He outlines a progression of societal structures, with democracy as the second-worst. Read on to understand Plato’s analysis of democracy and discover why he believes it’s less than ideal.

Plato: Tyranny Is Only One Step Away From Democracy

A mob of people raising their fists in ancient Greece illustrates tyranny in Plato's Republic

Is tyranny simply a form of governance, or is it a product of a certain psychology? How does Plato’s view of tyranny relate to modern political systems? According to Plato, tyranny results when democracy deteriorates. In The Republic, he describes tyrannies and the psychological profile of a tyrant, providing insights into power dynamics and human behavior that remain relevant today. Continue reading to understand Plato’s thoughts on tyranny and how it happens.

The True Believer: Book Overview & Takeaways (Eric Hoffer)

a bearded middle-aged man with grey hair reading a book outside with a building in the background

What drives people to join mass movements? What makes some movements succeed while others fizzle out? In his book The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He examines why certain groups are more susceptible to joining these movements and what factors contribute to their success or failure. Keep reading to discover Hoffer’s insights on the forces that shape our society and drive social change.

What Is a Mass Movement? Eric Hoffer Explains

a drawing of people massing together into a large group illustrates the question, "What is a mass movement?"

What is a mass movement? What drives people to join them? What makes these movements so powerful and influential? In his book The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He delves into why certain groups captivate those feeling alienated or discontented. This article will examine Hoffer’s insights and their relevance to today’s global landscape. Continue reading to learn what mass movements are and why it’s important to understand them.

What Makes a Social Movement Successful? (Eric Hoffer)

a huge group of people planting a red flag on the top of a mountain illustrates what makes a social movement successful

What makes a social movement successful? What factors contribute to its growth and longevity? Eric Hoffer’s book The True Believer explores the evolution of mass movements and the different roles that emerge as the movement grows. He explores what makes a social movement successful, examining the stages from inception to institution-building. Read on to discover how visionaries, loyal followers, and implementers shape the trajectory of social movements and understand the factors that help them succeed.

Jeff Hawkins: AI Structures Should Mimic the Neocortex

A human-like robot structure with an exposed brain and nerves illustrates Jeff Hawkins’s AI ideas

What’s the future of artificial intelligence? How can our understanding of the human brain revolutionize AI? According to Jeff Hawkins, AI development based on his Thousand Brains Theory could lead to exciting advancements. He proposes that AI systems should mimic the structure and function of the brain’s neocortex. Read on to explore how Hawkins’s ideas might influence the future of AI.

Why Do People Join Social Movements? 3 Reasons They Appeal

a drawing of people standing in a circle holding hands illustrates the question "Why do people join social movements?"

Why do people join social movements? What drives individuals to become part of something bigger than themselves? In The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He argues that these groups fulfill fundamental human needs for identity, community, and purpose. Keep reading to learn about three reasons people are drawn to mass movements.

What if There’s No Free Will? 3 Implications if It’s True

People walking in a bustling city scene illustrate life without free will

What would life be like there’s no free will? How would society function if we accepted that our actions are predetermined? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores the concept of life without free will and its implications for society. He argues that embracing determinism could lead to a fairer and kinder world, despite the challenges it presents to our traditional notions of praise, reward, blame, and personal responsibility. Read on to learn Sapolsky’s perspective on human behavior.