Never discourage anyone who continually makes progress, no matter how slow... even if that someone is yourself!
PlatoRead
To the rulers of the state then, if to any, it belongs of right to use falsehood, to deceive either enemies or their own citizens, for the good of the state: and no one else may meddle with this privilege.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Plato argues that rulers may justifiably use deceit for the greater good of the state, a privilege not allowed to others.
This quote by Plato discusses the concept that those in power, particularly rulers, may have the authority to use deception or falsehoods as a means to manipulate perceptions for the perceived benefit of society. It suggests a complex relationship between ethics and governance, raising questions about the moral implications of lying for the sake of state welfare and who has the right to wield such power.
Themes
DeceitPowerRulersStateEthicsFalsehood
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on political philosophy, the quote can be used to discuss moral dilemmas faced by leaders.
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