Philosophy Bites · Edmonds and Warburton

Josiah Ober on the Civic Bargain

September 8, 2022·20 min·1 clip

Josiah Ober argues democracy hinges on a civic bargain that requires friendship between political opponents.

Josiah Ober discusses the civic bargain as essential for democracy's survival, emphasizing agreements on security, welfare, and living without a boss. He explains civic friendship from Aristotle and uses historical examples like ancient Athens to illustrate how bargains prevent conflict, while warning that modern polarization risks democracy.

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