Never discourage anyone who continually makes progress, no matter how slow... even if that someone is yourself!
PlatoRead
The rulers of the state are the only persons who ought to have the privilege of lying, either at home or abroad; they may be allowed to lie for the good of the state.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Plato suggests that only leaders can lie if it serves the greater good of the state.
In this quote, Plato argues that lying is a privilege reserved for rulers, who may need to deceive either domestically or internationally for the welfare of the state. This perspective raises ethical questions about the morality of truth and deception in leadership, suggesting that sometimes misleading the public may be justified if it leads to a beneficial outcome for society as a whole.
Themes
LyingLeadershipTruthStateMorality
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, one could use this quote to discuss the ethical dilemmas leaders face in times of crisis.
More from Plato
All quotes →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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