Awakening Our Political Consciousness

OVERVIEW

Plato’s ‘anthropological principle’ viewed Politics as an expression of the human soul. “Rather than analyze the city as a structure arising out of the interactions of men, or as an external and lifeless entity which men inhabit, Plato analyzes the soul of the city with the same tools that are applied to an analysis of the souls of men. Wherever virtues and vices are found in the city, they can be traced back to the men who dwell therein and can then be understood on both the larger and smaller scales.” (https://mereorthodoxy.com/old-and-relevant-platos-anthropological-principle/)

If we look at politics today through the lens of Plato’s principle then we have an opportunity to examine how our political beliefs reflect our highest self, our core, and how they may be shaped by our personal and collective narrative. If we look at politics as the expression of human struggle- our urges and impulses--our conflicts and ambivalence—our power and powerlessness—our fear of scarcity-- our idealized self-image, our shadow and our highest self—then we create greater opportunities for improved political dialogue and individual and collective understanding and evolution. 

This workshop will provide an experience to get to know our politics. When did our political beliefs form, who or what influenced our beliefs? How do you feel about those who disagree with your political views? How do you manage conflicting viewpoints? Are you able to stay in face of conflict?

 

PROGRAM OUTCOMES:

Gain deeper awareness of political beliefs and their etiology

Tools for working with conflict to assist in improved interpersonal relationships burdened by political disagreement