In this dialogue, Plato speaks to a fellow philosopher about the tool of reason and the stain of oratory, opinion and illusion on the practice of virtue.

Plato:  Oratory has the same relation to justice as a Supreme Court judge played by a actor: a mischievous, base interpretation which creates a false impression.  This illusion is fostered by props like costumes and makeup, a beauty without soul, the result of training and discipline.

Philosopher:   This is not reason but emotion.

P:  Yes, an exploitation, politics and makeup appeal to the emotions.

Pr:  We don’t need another Hitler or Mussolini.

P:  We need to practice virtue which is the proper use of impression.  A long view of philosophy, as a guide, along with reason to lead us away from the passion of warring and creating injustice and harm in the world.

Pr:  We need the Philosopher King

P:  Or we need to be more like the philosopher king.