Straussians

Straussians refers to a group of thinkers and their followers who are significantly influenced by the philosophy of Leo Strauss. Strauss was a German-American political philosopher whose work often focused on classical political philosophy, particularly the writings of Plato and Aristotle. He was concerned with the nature of political wisdom, the relationship between philosophy and politics, and the dangers of historicism and relativism.

A key element of Strauss's thought is the concept of "esoteric writing." Strauss argued that many great philosophers, fearing persecution or misunderstanding, concealed their true intentions and beliefs behind a seemingly conventional surface in their writings. Uncovering these hidden meanings, or "exoteric" messages, requires careful and critical reading, often involving attention to contradictions, omissions, and subtle cues.

Followers of Strauss, often referred to as "Straussians," have applied these interpretive methods to a wide range of texts, not just ancient philosophy but also modern political thought and religious texts. Their interpretations often emphasize the enduring relevance of classical political ideas to contemporary challenges. The term "Straussians" is sometimes used more broadly to refer to individuals who share certain political or philosophical views associated with Strauss's critiques of modernity, such as a skepticism towards progressive ideologies and a belief in the importance of traditional values and a strong leadership. The group is not a formal organization but rather a network of scholars and intellectuals who engage with Strauss's ideas.