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
True perfection is a bold quest to seek. Only the willing and true of heart will seek the betterment of many.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True perfection involves striving for improvement that benefits others, requiring courage and sincerity.
This quote from Socrates highlights the idea that perfection is not just about achieving personal excellence, but rather it is a noble pursuit that prioritizes the welfare of others. It suggests that genuine seekers of perfection do so with a courageous heart and a sincere intention to uplift and enhance the lives of those around them, underscoring the importance of altruism in the journey towards greatness.
Themes
PerfectionQuestBettermentServiceHeartAltruism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about personal and community development.
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
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Man associates ideas not according to logic or verifiable exactitude, but according to his pleasure and interests. It is for this reason that most truths are nothing but prejudices.
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The Tao has no place for pettiness, and nor has Virtue. Pettiness is dangerous to Virtue; pettiness is dangerous to the Tao. It is said, rectify yourself and be done.
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As for doing good; that is one of the professions which is full. Moreover I have tried it fairly and, strange as it may seem, am satisfied that it does not agree with my constitution.
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