Book 3 Chapter 5: Power Is No Substitute

The Consolation of Philosophy

(c) Sovereignty cannot even bestow safety. History tells of the downfall of kings and their ministers. Tyrants go in fear of their lives. Analysis: Lady Philosophy has been walking us through the various false routes to happiness, and this week, we revisit the question of power. I look briefly at the relationship between Seneca and Nero, and ask the question: why are philosophers drawn to the powerful?