Friday, January 26, 2007

Democracy, Liberty, Beauty, and Truth

SOCRATES: There is a question I have been meaning to put to you, as you remain so addicted to the peculiar notions of democracy. Is it possible for a republic which is founded upon the principles of liberty, free speech, and intellectual freedom - as yours is - to also devote itself to the establishment of Truth, and the creation of Beauty?

GLEN: No.

SOCRATES: What?

GLEN: I said no.

SOCRATES: Okay. Huh. That's it, you don't want to fight about it?

GLEN: No.

SOCRATES: Want to drink a couple of beers, and then try it?

GLEN: No.

SOCRATES: How about ---

GLEN: Shut up. Just shut up.

PLATO: Both of you shut the hell up. I'm trying to watch Tony Soprano.