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The Quest for Character: What the Story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders
What Socrates’s greatest failure reveals about an ancient question: Can we teach our leaders to be better people?
Is good character something that can be taught? In 430 BCE, Socrates set out to teach the vain, power-seeking Athenian statesman Alcibiades how to be a good person—and failed spectacularly. Alcibiades went on to beguile his city into a hopeless war with Syracuse, and all of Athens paid the price.
In The Quest for Character, philosophy professor Massimo Pigliucci tells this famous story and asks what we can learn from it. He blends ancient sources with modern interpretations to give a full picture of the philosophy and cultivation of character, virtue, and personal excellence—what the Greeks called arete. At heart, The Quest for Character isn’t simply about what makes a good leader. Drawing on Socrates as well as his followers among the Stoics, this book gives us lessons perhaps even more crucial: how we can each lead an excellent life.
Is good character something that can be taught? In 430 BCE, Socrates set out to teach the vain, power-seeking Athenian statesman Alcibiades how to be a good person—and failed spectacularly. Alcibiades went on to beguile his city into a hopeless war with Syracuse, and all of Athens paid the price.
In The Quest for Character, philosophy professor Massimo Pigliucci tells this famous story and asks what we can learn from it. He blends ancient sources with modern interpretations to give a full picture of the philosophy and cultivation of character, virtue, and personal excellence—what the Greeks called arete. At heart, The Quest for Character isn’t simply about what makes a good leader. Drawing on Socrates as well as his followers among the Stoics, this book gives us lessons perhaps even more crucial: how we can each lead an excellent life.
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Published September 27, 2022
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About the author
Massimo Pigliucci
91 books1,178 followersMassimo Pigliucci is an author, blogger, podcaster, as well as the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York.
His academic work is in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, the nature of pseudoscience, and practical philosophy. His books include How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life (Basic Books) and Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk (University of Chicago Press).
His new book is Beyond Stoicism: A Guide to the Good Life with Stoics, Skeptics, Epicureans, and Other Ancient Philosophers (The Experiment).
His academic work is in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, the nature of pseudoscience, and practical philosophy. His books include How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life (Basic Books) and Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk (University of Chicago Press).
His new book is Beyond Stoicism: A Guide to the Good Life with Stoics, Skeptics, Epicureans, and Other Ancient Philosophers (The Experiment).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 17, 2022
I'm in the process of writing a full review for this book, and I just wanted to share a quick recap. I found this book fascinating for someone like me who's trying to navigate life using Philosophy and the ethical teachings of these men and women.
This book is a sterling attempt at collaborating Ancient History and storytelling, laced with subtle lessons on how to live (or indeed not to live) based on these figures from the depths of Ancient History. As I focus on Stoicism primarily as a Philosophy for living, I was familiar with a lot of the material in the latter half of the book, at least from a historical point of view.
However, the first sections of the book interested me the most. This documents Socrates and Alcibiades' complicated relationship, lacing it with anecdotes and lessons from Plato & Xenophon (the primary sources), plus modern scholars, which helps drive home the intended message of this book.
The writing and research on Seneca, Cato & Cicero were quite prevalent to me as I was travelling to some of the places they would have roamed back then when reading the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the idea behind the book, as well as Massimo's interpretations and wit. Hats off to him, as always.
The book ends with "The Art of Living--A Possible Course of Self-Study," a great addition for a chance at self-improvement after digesting the contents of the book.
I would say the book could be a bit of a long trail for anyone who is just beginning to look at these relationships and figures as a way towards practical living. I found it beneficial and all the more enjoyable having prior reading and knowledge.
This book is a sterling attempt at collaborating Ancient History and storytelling, laced with subtle lessons on how to live (or indeed not to live) based on these figures from the depths of Ancient History. As I focus on Stoicism primarily as a Philosophy for living, I was familiar with a lot of the material in the latter half of the book, at least from a historical point of view.
However, the first sections of the book interested me the most. This documents Socrates and Alcibiades' complicated relationship, lacing it with anecdotes and lessons from Plato & Xenophon (the primary sources), plus modern scholars, which helps drive home the intended message of this book.
The writing and research on Seneca, Cato & Cicero were quite prevalent to me as I was travelling to some of the places they would have roamed back then when reading the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the idea behind the book, as well as Massimo's interpretations and wit. Hats off to him, as always.
The book ends with "The Art of Living--A Possible Course of Self-Study," a great addition for a chance at self-improvement after digesting the contents of the book.
I would say the book could be a bit of a long trail for anyone who is just beginning to look at these relationships and figures as a way towards practical living. I found it beneficial and all the more enjoyable having prior reading and knowledge.
July 16, 2023
It started out slow for me but was overall a good read.
October 4, 2022
The Athenian general and statesman Alcibiades, Dionysius I and II of Syracuse, and the Roman emperor Nero all received instruction from prominent philosophers (Socrates, Plato, and Seneca, respectively)—and then proceeded to fail miserably as leaders. History will remember them as egotistical, selfish, greedy, tyrannical, and lacking virtue.
On the other hand, the Roman senator Cato, along with the Roman emperors Marcus Aurelius and Julian, were also instructed by philosophers—or were philosophers themselves—and each ruled effectively and with the approbation of their constituents. History will remember this class of rulers as embodying the admirable character traits of wisdom, justice, courage, temperance, and humanity.
So what are we supposed to make of this? What connection can there be between philosophy and politics when philosophical instruction leads to such variable outcomes? This is the question explored in Stoic philosopher Massimo Pigliucci’s latest book, The Quest for Character: What the Story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders.
In what largely amounts to a historical survey of a variety of relationships between philosophers and politicians in the ancient world, Pigliucci’s somewhat meandering book seems to conclude that philosophy, practiced as the art of living as a means for character development, is a necessary but not sufficient condition for good leaders. Politicians that inherently lack virtue, and seek positions of power for selfish reasons, cannot correct their character flaws even if they seem initially receptive to philosophy, as was clearly the case for Alcibiades, who, despite Socrates’s best efforts, ultimately betrayed his country (several times) and was eventually exiled and executed for his deceptive, destructive, and treasonous behavior.
On the other end of the spectrum, you have the widely admired Marcus Aurelius, who was both committed to the development of excellent character and instructed in philosophy by Junius Rusticus, who also introduced Marcus to the philosophy of Epictetus. The end-result is that Marcus Aurelius would become the closest example of a “philosopher-king” the world has ever seen, a ruler beloved by his constituents and fondly remembered by history.
Leaders like Aurelius, Cato, and Julian all demonstrate that philosophy is essential to the development of character, but only when one is motivated to improve and willingly puts in the effort and practice to do so. Character development is no easy task, and it’s an area that, in contemporary culture, is often overlooked. As Pigliucci wrote:
“Most people don’t think twice about spending a significant amount of effort and resources to get ahead in their career, or even just to maintain their physical health as long as they can. But when it comes to our character—what the ancient Greco-Romans thought is our most precious possession—we hardly give it a thought.”
And yet there is often a discrepancy between our own character and the character of those we most admire. We admire the people who display wisdom, courage, perseverance, self-control, justice, and charity, yet we find these very things lacking in ourselves—and by extension in the politicians we vote for.
If we want better politicians and leaders, we must demand better character, and stop relying on superficial attributes like physical appearance, wealth, social connections, aggression, and unrestrained ambition. All that will get us, in the end, is a modern day version of Alcibiades, and with it the possible downfall of the country, just as in ancient Athens.
This is, in essence, Pigliucci’s main contention, which I think is essentially correct, but he limits his analysis to the ancient world when he could have extended it to include modern leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and others who were both philosophically inclined and individuals of high virtue. This would have only strengthened his argument, both in terms of the importance of philosophy in character development and in the selection of leaders based on those qualities. In any case, it’s about time we place more emphasis on character—both in terms of our own development and in those we vote for—and start prioritizing the practice of philosophy as it was originally intended—as the art of virtuous living.
On the other hand, the Roman senator Cato, along with the Roman emperors Marcus Aurelius and Julian, were also instructed by philosophers—or were philosophers themselves—and each ruled effectively and with the approbation of their constituents. History will remember this class of rulers as embodying the admirable character traits of wisdom, justice, courage, temperance, and humanity.
So what are we supposed to make of this? What connection can there be between philosophy and politics when philosophical instruction leads to such variable outcomes? This is the question explored in Stoic philosopher Massimo Pigliucci’s latest book, The Quest for Character: What the Story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders.
In what largely amounts to a historical survey of a variety of relationships between philosophers and politicians in the ancient world, Pigliucci’s somewhat meandering book seems to conclude that philosophy, practiced as the art of living as a means for character development, is a necessary but not sufficient condition for good leaders. Politicians that inherently lack virtue, and seek positions of power for selfish reasons, cannot correct their character flaws even if they seem initially receptive to philosophy, as was clearly the case for Alcibiades, who, despite Socrates’s best efforts, ultimately betrayed his country (several times) and was eventually exiled and executed for his deceptive, destructive, and treasonous behavior.
On the other end of the spectrum, you have the widely admired Marcus Aurelius, who was both committed to the development of excellent character and instructed in philosophy by Junius Rusticus, who also introduced Marcus to the philosophy of Epictetus. The end-result is that Marcus Aurelius would become the closest example of a “philosopher-king” the world has ever seen, a ruler beloved by his constituents and fondly remembered by history.
Leaders like Aurelius, Cato, and Julian all demonstrate that philosophy is essential to the development of character, but only when one is motivated to improve and willingly puts in the effort and practice to do so. Character development is no easy task, and it’s an area that, in contemporary culture, is often overlooked. As Pigliucci wrote:
“Most people don’t think twice about spending a significant amount of effort and resources to get ahead in their career, or even just to maintain their physical health as long as they can. But when it comes to our character—what the ancient Greco-Romans thought is our most precious possession—we hardly give it a thought.”
And yet there is often a discrepancy between our own character and the character of those we most admire. We admire the people who display wisdom, courage, perseverance, self-control, justice, and charity, yet we find these very things lacking in ourselves—and by extension in the politicians we vote for.
If we want better politicians and leaders, we must demand better character, and stop relying on superficial attributes like physical appearance, wealth, social connections, aggression, and unrestrained ambition. All that will get us, in the end, is a modern day version of Alcibiades, and with it the possible downfall of the country, just as in ancient Athens.
This is, in essence, Pigliucci’s main contention, which I think is essentially correct, but he limits his analysis to the ancient world when he could have extended it to include modern leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and others who were both philosophically inclined and individuals of high virtue. This would have only strengthened his argument, both in terms of the importance of philosophy in character development and in the selection of leaders based on those qualities. In any case, it’s about time we place more emphasis on character—both in terms of our own development and in those we vote for—and start prioritizing the practice of philosophy as it was originally intended—as the art of virtuous living.
August 16, 2023
"Massimo Pigliucci's 'Quest for Character' masterfully explores the significance of character and its profound impact on personal as well as societal well-being. The book's premise centers on the importance of following Stoic ethical principles, specifically virtue, known as 'Arete' in Greek, which refers to the concept of virtue and excellence in all aspects of life. Arete embodies the pursuit of moral goodness and the fulfillment of one's potential to achieve a life of purpose and moral integrity. Pigliucci adeptly draws from ancient philosophies, particularly Socrates' profound teachings, to highlight the development of character and its crucial role in shaping the political well-being of cities. The author skillfully utilizes Plato's treatise, 'Republic,' which serves as the primary source on Socrates' philosophies and conversations. By examining Socrates' student, Alcibiades, as an example, Pigliucci emphasizes that the failure of a student does not equate to the failure of the teacher. Furthermore, the book explores Stoic principles including wisdom ,courage, justice, and self-control, alongside their impact on political discourse.
The exploration doesn't stop at Socratic philosophy (original meaning as a person who is seeking wisdom and just life) , as the book also delves into the life of Cato the Younger during the era of Julius Caesar. Cato's unwavering character determined his insistence and perseverance against what he perceived as a tyranny by Julius Caesar during the Civil War. Cato's commitment to principles and his belief in defending the ideals of the Roman Republic exemplified the essence of his character. Despite facing immense challenges and pressures, Cato stood firm in his principles, becoming a symbol of resilience and moral integrity during tumultuous times. Pigliucci's portrayal of Cato the Younger provides a compelling example of how character can profoundly impact an individual's actions and choices in the face of adversity.
The book seamlessly connects historical figures like Cato the Younger, Marcus Aurelius, Socrates, Themistocles, Aristotle, and Alexander the great to the modern world, underscoring the timeless importance of character (or lack thereof) development in shaping a just and morally upright society.
In addition to its wealth of historical information and insightful anecdotes, 'Quest for Character' stands as an approachable and engaging read. The book's narrative flow evokes the sensation of watching a captivating movie, making the learning experience enjoyable and enlightening. Personally, I found the reading experience to be thoroughly enjoyable and educational, as I gained a deeper understanding of the timeless importance of wisdom and just actions in our pursuit of a meaningful life.
In conclusion, 'Quest for Character' is a must-read for those seeking wisdom, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life. Pigliucci's masterful exploration of character and its historical context leaves a lasting impression, reminding readers of the enduring importance of moral excellence in shaping both past and present societies.
I cant wait to read author’s other works.
HOWEVER, I humbly have to point out minor things I came across in the book:
In the chapter titled ““CASE STUDY ONE: PLATO VS. THE TYRANTS”
Author says : ““When Dionysius confiscated and sold his estate, pocketing the money, Dion finally rebelled,”
However, After Dion had fled from Syracuse during the reign of the younger Dionysius, Arete (Dion’s wife) was compelled by her brother (Dionysus II) to marry Timocrates of Syracuse, one of his friends; but she was again received by Dion as his wife.
Probably this last act of Dionysus II was the last drop to push Dion into rebellion against him. Dionysius marrying Dion’s wife, Arete, to another man was probably the final straw.”
The author claims that Caligula made his horse a senator. The story of Caligula making his horse a senator is a popular historical anecdote, but its accuracy is debated among historians. Ancient sources mention Caligula jokingly suggesting the idea, but there is no concrete evidence that he actually appointed his horse to any official position. The story may have been a product of political criticism and exaggeration aimed at discrediting Caligula's reign.
Author several times mentions and references Historia Augusta. However we do know that the credibility of that source has been a subject of debate among scholars since it is anonymous and fragmented, exhibits varying literary styles indicating possible authors, inconsistencies, contradictions, and improbable anectodes, biased and fictitious elements and obvious political agenda. Therefore, modern scholars approach Historia Agusta with caution and tend to not take it a credible source.
Author says ““In the end, the sort of religious tolerance that had made the Roman empire so successful paved the way for the rise of a monotheistic, all-encompassing, exclusivist, and intolerant religion.” He is talking about the rise of Christianity here.
I just want to add a comment to this excerpt from the book. I think that it actually reflects what is happening and could be seen as a prediction of the future by some Christian societies and the Christian West. The tolerance and efforts to include a particular religius group along with the open-door policy of Europeans toward immigrants of that religion, may lead to a total takeover of Western civilization by what some perceive as a said religion’s totalitarian, misogynistic, backward, and highly intolerant culture.’
Author says: “Giulio de’ Medici—the guy who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.”
This information is not correct. It was indeed Pope Julius the second actually commissioned Michelangelo to paint the celing of the Sistine chapel (1512).
The exploration doesn't stop at Socratic philosophy (original meaning as a person who is seeking wisdom and just life) , as the book also delves into the life of Cato the Younger during the era of Julius Caesar. Cato's unwavering character determined his insistence and perseverance against what he perceived as a tyranny by Julius Caesar during the Civil War. Cato's commitment to principles and his belief in defending the ideals of the Roman Republic exemplified the essence of his character. Despite facing immense challenges and pressures, Cato stood firm in his principles, becoming a symbol of resilience and moral integrity during tumultuous times. Pigliucci's portrayal of Cato the Younger provides a compelling example of how character can profoundly impact an individual's actions and choices in the face of adversity.
The book seamlessly connects historical figures like Cato the Younger, Marcus Aurelius, Socrates, Themistocles, Aristotle, and Alexander the great to the modern world, underscoring the timeless importance of character (or lack thereof) development in shaping a just and morally upright society.
In addition to its wealth of historical information and insightful anecdotes, 'Quest for Character' stands as an approachable and engaging read. The book's narrative flow evokes the sensation of watching a captivating movie, making the learning experience enjoyable and enlightening. Personally, I found the reading experience to be thoroughly enjoyable and educational, as I gained a deeper understanding of the timeless importance of wisdom and just actions in our pursuit of a meaningful life.
In conclusion, 'Quest for Character' is a must-read for those seeking wisdom, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life. Pigliucci's masterful exploration of character and its historical context leaves a lasting impression, reminding readers of the enduring importance of moral excellence in shaping both past and present societies.
I cant wait to read author’s other works.
HOWEVER, I humbly have to point out minor things I came across in the book:
In the chapter titled ““CASE STUDY ONE: PLATO VS. THE TYRANTS”
Author says : ““When Dionysius confiscated and sold his estate, pocketing the money, Dion finally rebelled,”
However, After Dion had fled from Syracuse during the reign of the younger Dionysius, Arete (Dion’s wife) was compelled by her brother (Dionysus II) to marry Timocrates of Syracuse, one of his friends; but she was again received by Dion as his wife.
Probably this last act of Dionysus II was the last drop to push Dion into rebellion against him. Dionysius marrying Dion’s wife, Arete, to another man was probably the final straw.”
The author claims that Caligula made his horse a senator. The story of Caligula making his horse a senator is a popular historical anecdote, but its accuracy is debated among historians. Ancient sources mention Caligula jokingly suggesting the idea, but there is no concrete evidence that he actually appointed his horse to any official position. The story may have been a product of political criticism and exaggeration aimed at discrediting Caligula's reign.
Author several times mentions and references Historia Augusta. However we do know that the credibility of that source has been a subject of debate among scholars since it is anonymous and fragmented, exhibits varying literary styles indicating possible authors, inconsistencies, contradictions, and improbable anectodes, biased and fictitious elements and obvious political agenda. Therefore, modern scholars approach Historia Agusta with caution and tend to not take it a credible source.
Author says ““In the end, the sort of religious tolerance that had made the Roman empire so successful paved the way for the rise of a monotheistic, all-encompassing, exclusivist, and intolerant religion.” He is talking about the rise of Christianity here.
I just want to add a comment to this excerpt from the book. I think that it actually reflects what is happening and could be seen as a prediction of the future by some Christian societies and the Christian West. The tolerance and efforts to include a particular religius group along with the open-door policy of Europeans toward immigrants of that religion, may lead to a total takeover of Western civilization by what some perceive as a said religion’s totalitarian, misogynistic, backward, and highly intolerant culture.’
Author says: “Giulio de’ Medici—the guy who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.”
This information is not correct. It was indeed Pope Julius the second actually commissioned Michelangelo to paint the celing of the Sistine chapel (1512).
December 5, 2023
This book did a solid job at discussing various types of ethical positions various leaders and philosophers have taken throughout history, with an emphasis on ancient history. The author used the story of Socrates and Alcibiades as the launching pad into these conversations, but supplemented it with various other relationships and teachers as well. I highlighted a LOT of this book and found so many practical lessons to apply to my own life as well as my teaching. If you are interested in moral philosophy and teaching it to your children or students, then I highly recommend this book. The last chapter is a gold mine!
March 11, 2024
The author starts with Socrates then offers insights to other philosophers and how they can inspire or influence leadership in a variety of settings I enjoyed the conversational tone and the asides linking the past with present challenges. He offered many questions we can ask when encountering leaders who are struggling or leading poorly. Also the concepts of virtue, character and excellence are discussed.
January 22, 2025
Somewhat of a primer on PanHellenic and Roman philosophy, somewhat a tutorial on personal values and public life.
There were many works of classical antiquity of the region and ages that I would like to explore over the next few years.
There were many works of classical antiquity of the region and ages that I would like to explore over the next few years.
September 14, 2023
Book suffers from vision. Massimo Pigliucci spends far more time setting up the historical context of his argument rather than the actual analysis and his own input. As a result, the content of the text reads far more like a series of mini biographies of famous historical figures, most of which there are more authoritative accounts of. It was dizzyingly boring, most of all the case study of whom the book was named after: Socrates and Alcibiades. I learned nothing really beyond that even a great teacher like Socrates could not help his pupil Alcibiades, who was a piece of shit his whole life.
March 24, 2023
THE QUEST FOR CHARACTER: What the story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders | Massimo Pogliucci, Basic Books, (2022), 272p.
Using the life of Alcibiades as the canvas, Pagliucci paints a vivid lesson in five parts: 1 - Virtue can and should be taught. 2 - If you are not virtuous, don’t get into politics. 3 - A good character is an inside job. 4 - We should all be “philosophers.” And 5 - What works when it comes to improving character?
Pigliucci argues that these two figures - Socrates & Alcibiades - embody opposing leadership and character development approaches. By studying their lives and ideas, we can gain insight into what it takes to become a good leader.
Excellence in Greek is “arete,” The more recognizable in its Latin form is “virtue.” What makes an excellent human? Socrates not only wandered the streets of Athens, provoking inquiry into this topic, but also tutored a handful of disciplines, including one of this favorite - and, as it would turn out, his worst student - Alcibiades. While successful at times, Alcibiades was anything but excellent as a human.
Amidst the Peloponnesian war, they both served Athens as soldiers. When Alcibiades sought Socrates’ advice on his intention to seek public office, Socrates responded with typical inquiry, investigating the nature of his drive and purpose. After which, he concluded it was merely for vainglory and self-aggrandizement. He declared to Alcibiades that he was “too wed to stupidity” and must seek more wisdom before pursuing leadership. Alcibiades ignored his sage’s advice.
Suffice it to say calamity ensued. After dramatic victories and betrayals, Alcibiades was assassinated in a hail of arrows. Lost to history is who ordered the hit - the Athenians or Sparta - both of whom he had championed and betrayed in separate capers. Both had motivation and opportunity, as they say.
His writing is lucid and straightforward, but his narrative is untidy. Given that the world needs more works in the genre of Plutarch’s Lives - grand moral biographies - from which our age can learn plenty, Pagilucci’s addition is most welcome.
Using the life of Alcibiades as the canvas, Pagliucci paints a vivid lesson in five parts: 1 - Virtue can and should be taught. 2 - If you are not virtuous, don’t get into politics. 3 - A good character is an inside job. 4 - We should all be “philosophers.” And 5 - What works when it comes to improving character?
Pigliucci argues that these two figures - Socrates & Alcibiades - embody opposing leadership and character development approaches. By studying their lives and ideas, we can gain insight into what it takes to become a good leader.
Excellence in Greek is “arete,” The more recognizable in its Latin form is “virtue.” What makes an excellent human? Socrates not only wandered the streets of Athens, provoking inquiry into this topic, but also tutored a handful of disciplines, including one of this favorite - and, as it would turn out, his worst student - Alcibiades. While successful at times, Alcibiades was anything but excellent as a human.
Amidst the Peloponnesian war, they both served Athens as soldiers. When Alcibiades sought Socrates’ advice on his intention to seek public office, Socrates responded with typical inquiry, investigating the nature of his drive and purpose. After which, he concluded it was merely for vainglory and self-aggrandizement. He declared to Alcibiades that he was “too wed to stupidity” and must seek more wisdom before pursuing leadership. Alcibiades ignored his sage’s advice.
Suffice it to say calamity ensued. After dramatic victories and betrayals, Alcibiades was assassinated in a hail of arrows. Lost to history is who ordered the hit - the Athenians or Sparta - both of whom he had championed and betrayed in separate capers. Both had motivation and opportunity, as they say.
His writing is lucid and straightforward, but his narrative is untidy. Given that the world needs more works in the genre of Plutarch’s Lives - grand moral biographies - from which our age can learn plenty, Pagilucci’s addition is most welcome.
February 18, 2023
Having read a lot of nonfiction, I found this to be an unusual work. In my experience, most nonfiction books start out strong - but are about 25% too long and fizzle out toward the end. Not so for this book.
Pigliucci's look at the connection between philosophy and politics started out a little slowly for me. In fact, I found it ironic that the first part of the book - which actually focuses on the Socrates and Alcibiades story - is the weakest section. After that, the book gets more engaging and enjoyable for readers the longer they stick with it. By its end, I didn't want to put it down, focusing on it more than the novel I was reading (even though it is a good read as well).
Why?
I believe it's because the first few chapters are the most academic in writing style. But by Chapter 5, Pigliucci's voice is much more natural and enjoyable for the reader, making the second half of the book much more engaging than the first half.
I especially appreciated Chapter 6, which presented three case studies of ancient philosopher kings: Cato, Marcus Aurelius, and Julian The Apostate. And the final chapter ("It's All About Character") was pure gold. I plan on following the course of self-study on the art of living he suggested in that chapter, reading the various works he recommended on biographical role models, sound philosophical theory, and effective philosophy practices.
Ultimately, I feel this book deserves the four stars I gave it. It was better than most nonfiction works I've read. But the somewhat slow beginning kept it from getting five stars.
Pigliucci's look at the connection between philosophy and politics started out a little slowly for me. In fact, I found it ironic that the first part of the book - which actually focuses on the Socrates and Alcibiades story - is the weakest section. After that, the book gets more engaging and enjoyable for readers the longer they stick with it. By its end, I didn't want to put it down, focusing on it more than the novel I was reading (even though it is a good read as well).
Why?
I believe it's because the first few chapters are the most academic in writing style. But by Chapter 5, Pigliucci's voice is much more natural and enjoyable for the reader, making the second half of the book much more engaging than the first half.
I especially appreciated Chapter 6, which presented three case studies of ancient philosopher kings: Cato, Marcus Aurelius, and Julian The Apostate. And the final chapter ("It's All About Character") was pure gold. I plan on following the course of self-study on the art of living he suggested in that chapter, reading the various works he recommended on biographical role models, sound philosophical theory, and effective philosophy practices.
Ultimately, I feel this book deserves the four stars I gave it. It was better than most nonfiction works I've read. But the somewhat slow beginning kept it from getting five stars.
October 6, 2022
Massimo talks about virtue and character being the core of good leaders and societies.
There is a look at the relationships between teachers and their pupils who eventually become leaders some examples of this is Aristotle and Alexander the Great; Socrates and Alcibiades; Seneca and Nero. How did these leaders take the advice of these teachers and did it in fact change the way in which they led?
At the end of the book, Massimo shows that building and working on living a philosophical life is the best way of living and creating a near-utopian society (By philosophy he means Virtue Ethics, not Academic Philosophy which is taught in Universities, which he is extremely anti towards in this whole book).
I found this book a fantastic read. 10/10 would recommend to anyone that is interested in leading or living in accordance with Stoic principles.
There is a look at the relationships between teachers and their pupils who eventually become leaders some examples of this is Aristotle and Alexander the Great; Socrates and Alcibiades; Seneca and Nero. How did these leaders take the advice of these teachers and did it in fact change the way in which they led?
At the end of the book, Massimo shows that building and working on living a philosophical life is the best way of living and creating a near-utopian society (By philosophy he means Virtue Ethics, not Academic Philosophy which is taught in Universities, which he is extremely anti towards in this whole book).
I found this book a fantastic read. 10/10 would recommend to anyone that is interested in leading or living in accordance with Stoic principles.
October 21, 2022
This new volume by Dr. Pigliucci is an excellent addition to those seeking out good leaders. It states with an examination of Socrates and Alcibiades, and their differing methods of building character or not building it.
It offers very relevant information for modern politicians, too. Character has driven societies in positive directions over the millennia, yet those without character have set societies back, too. (The US political system is fraught with the latter, which is playing out right now.)
The volume ends with "The Art of Living--A Possible Course of Self-Study." The section offers readers a chance to evaluate themselves on ethical self-improvement.
Overall, excellent volume that offers us a chance to not only see how important character is, but how to examine our own character.
It offers very relevant information for modern politicians, too. Character has driven societies in positive directions over the millennia, yet those without character have set societies back, too. (The US political system is fraught with the latter, which is playing out right now.)
The volume ends with "The Art of Living--A Possible Course of Self-Study." The section offers readers a chance to evaluate themselves on ethical self-improvement.
Overall, excellent volume that offers us a chance to not only see how important character is, but how to examine our own character.
December 17, 2022
Once again Dr. Pigliucci has offered us a masterful rendering of historical events and ideas, in this case the dialogues and interactions between Socrates and the young statesman Alcibiades; and the contrast in the subsrequen trajectories of the two men's lives as a result of their respective commitment to (Socrates) or rejection of (Alcibiades) the pursuit of virtuous living.
Pigliucci then draws these lessons forward into the 21st century and offers them up as a standard in the cultivation of (or at least in the recognition of) the presence or absence of virtuous character in today's leaders- and, of course, within ourselves as well.
Pigliucci then draws these lessons forward into the 21st century and offers them up as a standard in the cultivation of (or at least in the recognition of) the presence or absence of virtuous character in today's leaders- and, of course, within ourselves as well.
May 5, 2025
The author shows how virtuous character was thought through and important to Socrates and Alcibiades and how this applies to our modern sociopolitical context. While I am unconvinced that virtue is enough for a society to run smoothly, I do think if we are to embrace liberalism (in contrast to realism, e.g., Hobbes), then virtuous character is essential, at the very least, for the majority of the citizens of a liberal democracy and, as such, Pigliucci's book is a welcome appeal to the necessity of virtue.
September 8, 2025
The first half of the final chapter should be required reading for everyone. Imagine a world where everyone was taught not only what virtue is, but how to practice it?
The modules at the end are a great launching point for any new Stoic practitioners or anyone interested in Stoicism. It's essentially a long reading list organized into modules that, if read in the suggested sequence, will set any person on the path towards living more virtuously.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is wants to be or is actively trying to be a better human being.
The modules at the end are a great launching point for any new Stoic practitioners or anyone interested in Stoicism. It's essentially a long reading list organized into modules that, if read in the suggested sequence, will set any person on the path towards living more virtuously.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is wants to be or is actively trying to be a better human being.
July 15, 2023
This is an interesting book that does an in delete analysis regarding the question of can we learn character or is it something that is naturally instilled within us? The book outlines various stories throughout history as examples of both sides of the debate. There is also a great list of books to read and exercises to explore after you have finished the book. If you are a fan of philosophy, particularly in expanding your mind to new ideas then this is a book you should read!
July 23, 2024
This is a excellent text-
It is so wonderful to really feel like you gained something by reading a book. It’s wonderful to have that energized and creative feel as you close that cover. The connections and next steps are synegizing!!
That’s the way I felt after reading The Quest for Character.
It is to bad that this is not required reading for all of our politicians! I know Massimo was trying to make a difference with this book. At least it did with this reader!
Challenge excepted!
It is so wonderful to really feel like you gained something by reading a book. It’s wonderful to have that energized and creative feel as you close that cover. The connections and next steps are synegizing!!
That’s the way I felt after reading The Quest for Character.
It is to bad that this is not required reading for all of our politicians! I know Massimo was trying to make a difference with this book. At least it did with this reader!
Challenge excepted!
April 22, 2023
My curiosity about the Socratic method of teaching caused me to read this book. It's not the first time that I've tried to grasp the technique but it is the first time that I finally get it due to the incredible detail and examples. I don't usually read history but this book, especially the last few chapters, is relevant to today's troubles in leadership.
April 22, 2023
3.5/5
It is super Eurocentric, but it is interesting in its discussion of whether morality can be taught and what makes "good" character or not so good character.
It covers a number of Greek philosophers (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Seneca) and Greek and Roman leaders and philosopher-leaders. I haven't spent much time on classical history and philosophy so it was a bonus in that regard.
It is super Eurocentric, but it is interesting in its discussion of whether morality can be taught and what makes "good" character or not so good character.
It covers a number of Greek philosophers (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Seneca) and Greek and Roman leaders and philosopher-leaders. I haven't spent much time on classical history and philosophy so it was a bonus in that regard.
December 20, 2022
Character as a trait can do wonders not only for self development but for building stronger societies. Massimo explores in an open ended essay the traits of ancient leaders contrasting them with virtuous and non-virtuous behaviors.
January 14, 2024
More aptly titled: A Brief Moralist History of Ancient Philosophers and Leaders. This book is 98% history. Which is great if that is what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a pragmatic book on leadership and character through an ancient philosophical lens, look elsewhere.
September 2, 2024
Spoiler alert: yes you can if you start early so it’s too late for 99.9% of our politicians. Bummer. Still I like the book for its history and level-headed assessments. I especially like the recommended “curriculum” of reading and study at the end.
Want to read
October 10, 2022Virtue Ethics/ Leadership/ Intellectual History / Ethics/ Alcibiades/ Socrates/ Persons
Call Number: DMPL
Notes: READ0 PERSONS
Call Number: DMPL
Notes: READ0 PERSONS
December 20, 2022
This book is bit of a patchwork. It could have used a fair amount of editing and clarification of purpose, but then would that had left a book to publish?
January 25, 2023
This is a decent book, which I mostly enjoyed. To my taste, however, there was too much historical details compared to the actual analysis of the persons and their character.
February 28, 2023
69/100
5 stars - 90/100
4 stars - 80/100
3 stars - 70/100
2 stars - 60/100
1 star - 50/100
5 stars - 90/100
4 stars - 80/100
3 stars - 70/100
2 stars - 60/100
1 star - 50/100
March 17, 2023
Good book
April 28, 2023
This is a good read on what entails good leadership and what has worked and not worked based on these historical characters. I recommend the audio version.
Read
May 19, 2023The beginning was interesting but over time I became so bored with it. I dnf and it's been a few months. Still haven't picked it back up
May 21, 2023
Knowledgeable, good natured and informative. An admirably light touch with Socrates and a fan of Epictetus. What else is there?
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