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Their military training will ensure success in war, but they must maintain unity by not allowing the state to grow to large, and by ensuring that the measures for promotion and demotion from one class to another are carried out. Above all they must maintain the educational system unchanged; for on education everything else depends, and it is an illusion to imagine that mere legislation without it can effect anything of consequence.
Plato
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Education is fundamental to societal success, and maintaining unity is crucial for effective governance.

In this quote, Plato emphasizes the critical role of education in the success of a society and its military. He warns against the dangers of an oversized state and the importance of maintaining unity among classes through fair promotion and demotion practices. Without a stable and consistent educational system, any legislative changes would be ineffective, highlighting that real progress relies on an informed and cohesive population.

Themes

EducationUnitySocietySuccessMilitary

In practice

Example use cases

During a graduation speech to highlight the importance of education in achieving future success.

More from Plato

Never discourage anyone who continually makes progress, no matter how slow... even if that someone is yourself!
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Not one of them who took up in his youth with this opinion that there are no gods ever continued until old age faithful to his conviction.
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Nothing in the affairs of men is worthy of great anxiety.
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Let parents bequeath to their children not riches, but the spirit of reverence.
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