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
Those who want the fewest things are nearest to the gods.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The fewer desires one has, the closer they are to a state of divine contentment.
This quote from Socrates suggests that simplicity and minimalism in one's desires can lead to a deeper spiritual connection or understanding. By wanting less, individuals may achieve more inner peace and fulfillment, distancing themselves from material concerns and closer to a more enlightened existence associated with the divine.
Themes
SimplicityContentmentDesiresSpiritualityMinimalism
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophy talk, one might quote Socrates to emphasize the value of living simply.
More from Socrates
All quotes βThe 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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