Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast
Welcome to Beyond the Text, a podcast series dedicated to delving into intellectual history with depth and context. In a world saturated with quick takes, Beyond the Text goes the extra mile. Paying homage to Skinner's insights on the importance of context, this podcast unveils overlooked aspects of historical and intellectual narratives.
Co-hosted by Samuel Woodall and Jack Thomson, Beyond the Text explores the profound impact of thought and ideas throughout human history—forces that have driven change, shaped societies, and sparked revolutions. Beyond the mere words on the page, this podcast unravels the layers surrounding pivotal concepts and moments. Each episode meticulously examines the connections, influences, and societal currents that contribute to their evolution.
Join us on this journey to grasp the true significance of intellectual history. Whether you're an enthusiast, a curious mind, or someone intrigued by the myriad forces shaping our world, Beyond the Text provides a space for nuanced exploration. Tune in and venture beyond the surface to understand the rich tapestry of our intellectual heritage.
Samuel Woodall is a PhD candidate in Intellectual History at the University of Buckingham. He previously earned an MLitt in Intellectual History from the University of St. Andrews and a BA (Hons) in History and Politics from the University of Exeter.
Jack Thomson holds an MA in Philosophy from the University of Buckingham and brings a philosophical lens to the exploration of ideas, ensuring each discussion is both rigorous and thought-provoking.
Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast
Plato's Republic
In this episode of Beyond the Text, Samuel Woodall and Jack Thomson sit down for an in-depth discussion on Plato’s Republic—one of the most influential works in the history of political thought. Written against the backdrop of Athenian political upheaval and the trial of Socrates, The Republic presents Plato’s radical vision of justice, order, and philosophical rule.
We explore Plato’s critique of democracy and his proposal for an ideal state ruled by philosopher-kings—those uniquely capable of grasping the Forms, especially the Form of the Good. Through the voice of Socrates, Plato introduces a tripartite vision of the soul and society, linking justice to inner harmony and political structure. His famous Theory of Forms and the Allegory of the Cave challenge us to rethink what we know—and how we come to know it.
From education and censorship to metaphysics and the nature of truth, we unpack how The Republic continues to shape debates in politics, philosophy, and beyond. Is Plato offering a utopian blueprint or a cautionary tale? And what, if anything, can his ideal polis teach us today?
📚 Recommended Reading:
- Plato, The Republic (esp. Books I–VII)
- Julia Annas, An Introduction to Plato’s Republic
- Karl Popper, The Open Society and Its Enemies
🎙 Hosted by: Samuel Woodall & Jack Thomson
🎧 Podcast: Beyond the Text
Subscribe and tune in for more searching conversations on the foundational texts of political and philosophical thought.
