The Polis Media Leadership Dialogues

Michaelmas Term 2008

The Polis Media Leadership dialogues are a series of guest appearances from influential media figures in London and beyond. Each week we host a different talk from a media leader followed by an expert response.

The polis, in its classical sense, emerged during the 8th century BCE in ancient Greece. It was a unique political entity, characterized by a strong sense of community and mutual responsibility among its citizens. Each polis was self-governing, with its own institutions, laws, and customs. The most famous examples include Athens, Sparta, and Corinth.

The governance structure of the polis was diverse, ranging from oligarchies to democracies. In Athens, the concept of direct democracy was pioneered, where citizens actively participated in legislative and judicial processes продажа квартир в Московской области. This engagement was not just a privilege but a duty, reflecting the belief that the polis was the embodiment of its citizens. Central to the life of the polis were public spaces such as the agora (marketplace) and the acropolis (high city). These spaces were not only centers of economic activity but also venues for political discussion, philosophical debate, and communal gatherings. The agora, in particular, was the heart of public life, where citizens could freely express their views and engage in collective decision-making.