Roman Forum: Real Power vs Performed Power

Roman Forum: Real Power vs Performed Power
(David, Stoicism, and the Problem of Spectacle)
This is the first meeting in an ongoing Roman Forum discussion series.

Description:
What does real power look like?
Is it loud, visible, constantly proving itself, or quiet, restrained, and difficult to shake?
In this discussion, we’ll explore real vs. performative power across philosophy, history, and art:

• Michelangelo’s David and power before action
• Stoic ideas of self-command and inner strength
• Power as spectacle (titles, dominance, noise) vs power as containment
• Why civilizations - and individuals - confuse visibility with strength

This is not a debate and not a lecture.
It’s a guided, open discussion from multiple philosophical perspectives.
Before the meeting:
Participants are encouraged (but not required) to reflect on:

• Performative power vs quiet power
• Stoic ideas of strength and self-mastery
• Historical or modern examples where noise was mistaken for strength

No expertise required. Curiosity encouraged.
Location:
Central Market (South Lamar) - café seating near the stage
We’ll push tables together.
Format:
Open discussion • respectful • example-based • no culture-war speeches • Opinions welcome