QuoteProject
Our object in the construction of the state is the greatest happiness of the whole, and not that of any one class.
Plato
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The goal of government should be to promote the overall happiness of all its citizens, not just a select few.

In this quote, Plato emphasizes the fundamental purpose of a state's formation, which is to ensure the collective happiness and well-being of its entire population rather than favoring any particular group or class. This reflects the idea that a just and effective society must prioritize the common good above individual or elite interests.

Themes

HappinessStatePhilosophyGovernmentJustice

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about social welfare policies, a leader might say, 'As Plato indicated, our efforts must ensure the greatest happiness of all citizens, not just the privileged.'

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