In this text, Plato used an analogy of crewmates on a ship thinking that they can overthrow the captain as they feel he is not suitable in the art of navigation. The captain is larger and stronger however a bit deaf and blind and has limited knowledge on the sea however the most qualified. The crewmates chat about overthrowing their captain however they realise they have to appreciate his skills and abilities as they don’t realise what it takes to be a captain. They don’t realise the dedication and study that went into researching the seasons, sky, starts and winds to combine into his knowledge of navigation. 

This can be used in current day times. If you were ill, you’d go to see an expert; a doctor. You would want to go and consult someone specially trained in the department. This can be mirrored in Scottish politics, you’d surely want to go to your local MSP; a trained, educated and elected member of society rather than just whoever can shout the loudest at your local branch meeting. Decisions should be made to better the state which required judgement and skill rather than the interests of self progression.  

Plato argues that there are no expert rulers to be found unless “kings become philosophers or philosophers become kings”. Plato argues that this is a necessary qualification to rule. This makes us question though whether those that have a degree in philosophy are therefore qualified to rule?