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
To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding oneself is the foundation of true knowledge and insight.
This quote by Socrates emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and introspection as essential components of wisdom. By knowing oneself deeply, individuals can make better decisions, enhance their understanding of the world, and achieve personal growth, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
Themes
Self-AwarenessWisdomIntrospectionKnowledgeSelf-Discovery
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about personal growth, one might use this quote to inspire self-reflection.
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
Similar quotes
The master was an old Turtle--we used to call him Tortoise--' Why did you call him Tortoise, if he wasn't one?' Alice asked. We called him Tortoise because he taught us,' said the Mock Turtle angrily; 'really you are very dull!' You ought to be ashamed of yourself for asking such a simple question,' added the Gryphon; and then they both sat silent and looked at poor Alice, who felt ready to sink into the earth.
Lewis CarrollRead
Wishing you happiness always! Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. . . . . Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Max EhrmannRead
Don't get older just to get wiser. If you get older, you will be wiser, I believe that - if you dare. But get older because it's fun!
Maya AngelouRead
There is no accomplishment so easy to acquire as politeness and none more profitable.
George Bernard ShawRead
Let yourself be open and life will be easier. A spoon of salt in a glass of water makes the water undrinkable. A spoon of salt in a lake is almost unnoticed.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Oh, Adamβs sons, how cleverly you defend yourselves against all that might do you good!
C. S. LewisRead