Which philosopher didn't like democracy?

The philosopher who didn't like democracy was Plato.

Plato, a highly influential figure in Western philosophy, is widely recognized as one of the most significant opponents of democratic rule in Ancient Greece. His critiques of democracy were deeply embedded in his political philosophy, particularly as articulated in his seminal work, The Republic.

Plato's Core Criticisms of Democracy

Plato's dislike for democracy stemmed from several fundamental concerns, believing it to be an inferior form of government prone to instability and the rule of ignorance.

Key Reasons for His Opposition:

• Rule by the Uninformed: Plato argued that governing a state requires specialized knowledge and wisdom, much like a ship needs a skilled captain, not a crew chosen by popular vote. He believed that in a democracy, decisions are made by the general populace, who often lack the necessary expertise, understanding, or long-term vision. This can lead to irrational choices driven by emotion or fleeting desires rather than reason and truth.
• Vulnerability to Demagogues: He feared that democracy was susceptible to the rise of demagogues – charismatic leaders who manipulate public opinion with rhetoric and appeals to emotion, rather than sound arguments or a genuine commitment to the common good. Such leaders, he believed, could easily sway the uneducated masses and lead the state astray.
• Instability and Anarchy: Plato viewed democracy as a chaotic and unstable system. He believed that its emphasis on individual freedom and equality could devolve into excessive liberty, leading to a disregard for laws, authority, and ultimately, anarchy. This breakdown of order, he theorized, could pave the way for tyranny, as a strong leader might emerge to restore order, often at the cost of freedom.
• Lack of True Wisdom: For Plato, the ideal state should be governed by philosopher-kings – individuals who possess true wisdom, virtue, and an understanding of the Forms (eternal, perfect ideals). He saw democracy as inherently flawed because it prioritizes popular opinion and majority rule over the pursuit of objective truth and the guidance of the wise.

Plato's Preferred Alternative:

Instead of democracy, Plato advocated for an aristocracy (rule by the best) or, more specifically, a philosopher-king system. In this ideal state, called the Kallipolis, rulers would be carefully educated and trained philosophers who, having grasped the highest truths, would govern justly and wisely for the benefit of all citizens, categorizing individuals based on their natural aptitudes (gold, silver, bronze souls) to fulfill specific roles within society.

Plato's criticisms of democracy remain a significant topic of discussion in political philosophy, influencing subsequent thinkers and continuing to provoke debate about the merits and challenges of democratic governance.