A system of morality that is based on relative emotional values is a mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception that has nothing sound in it and nothing true.
SocratesRead
Do not be angry with me if I tell you the truth
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truth can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it is essential for growth.
This quote by Socrates highlights the importance of honesty, even when the truth may provoke anger or discomfort. It suggests that truth is a fundamental aspect of genuine communication and understanding, and that one should not take offense when confronted with honest feedback or revelations, as they ultimately serve to enlighten rather than harm.
Themes
TruthHonestyCommunicationGrowthWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about personal feedback in a workshop, one might quote Socrates to emphasize the value of truthful communication.
More from Socrates
All quotes →The poets are only the interpreters of the gods.
SocratesRead
I am wiser than this man, for neither of us appears to know anything great and good; but he fancies he knows something, although he knows nothing; whereas I, as I do not know anything, so I do not fancy I do. In this trifling particular, then, I appear to be wiser than he, because I do not fancy I know what I do not know.
SocratesRead
The unexamined life is not worth living.
SocratesRead
When I was young, I believed that life might unfold in an orderly way, according to my hopes and expectations. But now I understand that the Way winds like a river, always changing, ever onward.. My journeys revealed that the Way itself creates the warrior; that every path leads to peace, every choice to wisdom. And that life has always been, and will always be, arising in Mystery.
SocratesRead
Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued." "It is not living that matters, but living rightly. The unexamined life is not worth living.
SocratesRead
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When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won.
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