Education has a tremendous power on man. Can't we see to…
“Education has a tremendous power on man. Can't we see to which astonishing disciple the people of Sparte have submitted ("s'est plié", Fr.) for centuries, and this with a view to very petty purposes: purely outer greatness, the military predominace of Sparte. This example proves that man can everything on themselves when they want it ("peuvent tout sur eux-mêmes quand ils le veulent", Fr.); therefore it would only be a question of making them will the good.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Education can be used for both noble and petty ends; its purpose shapes society
In simple terms: Education’s purpose determines its impact
Key Takeaway
Guide education toward moral good
Themes
education
morality
power
societal influence
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- military training
- civic schooling
- elite instruction
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
historical example
Questions to Reflect On
- How to ensure education promotes virtue?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Education alone cannot guarantee virtue