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.