How we cite our quotes:
Quote #7
"What is most surprising of all to hear is that each one of the elements we praised in [the philosophical] nature has a part in destroying the soul that has them and tearing it away from philosophy." (491b)
With great power comes great responsibility, right? Sounds like philosophers and superheroes have some things in common. The kind of people who are capable of becoming philosophers have such a special and unique blend of qualities that if just one little thing goes wrong, those special qualities can unite for evil. Yikes.
Quote #8
"Then it's impossible... that a multitude be philosophic...and so those who do philosophize are necessarily blamed by [the many]." (494a)
Socrates doesn't have much good to say about crowds and multitudes. In fact, any time you see the phrase "the many" come up in Plato, you can be pretty darn confident that nothing nice is coming after. The reason for this is likely that both Socrates and Plato value each individual's critical thought, self-examination, and skepticism. Critical thought, self-examination, and skepticism are not qualities you find in crowds of people.
Quote #9
"...but this is the very charge I'm bringing; not one city today is in a condition worthy of the philosophic nature." (497b)
Too bad the imaginary city Socrates and his friends have spent all this time forming isn't real, because Socrates believes that there isn't anywhere even remotely close to channeling the benefits of philosophy. How does the republic sound to you? Would you want to live there? Why or why not?