I agree with the premise of your comment, but would add that scientists, engineers, and intellectuals can be equally political and driven by self interest. Further, how does one define who are a country’s ‘best’? The most innovative scientists are not necessarily the ones with the most NIH grants or the most publications. The ‘best’ intellectuals are not necessarily department heads at universities. I think everyone needs to have more voice.
Einstein was a horrible husband. The idea of Socrates to establish a country ruled by philosophers wouldn't survive over the short term. The reality is "everyone needs to be respected and have more voice".