What's Wrong with Philosopher Kings or Presidents

[Gary Childress]

The idea of a philosopher as a political leader seems a little archaic perhaps but is there a reason why philosophers seldom seem to make it very far in politics, other than perhaps being less likely to be swayed by bribes and prejudices? Are they too indecisive where expedient and decisive choices are required? Has the world given up on pious people? Do we now deliberately only seek corrupt people for political positions, especially the highest ones?

[LuckyR]

The idea of a philosopher as a political leader seems a little archaic perhaps but is there a reason why philosophers seldom seem to make it very far in politics, other than perhaps being less likely to be swayed by bribes and prejudices? Are they too indecisive where expedient and decisive choices are required? Has the world given up on pious people? Do we now deliberately only seek corrupt people for political positions, especially the highest ones?

No it's the other way around. The process for getting elected, selects against honest candidates.