Phronimos, possessing practical wisdom . But the only…
“Phronimos, possessing practical wisdom . But the only virtue special to a ruler is practical wisdom; all the others must be possessed, so it seems, both by rulers and ruled. The virtue of a person being ruled is not practical wisdom but correct opinion; he is rather like a person who makes the pipes, while the ruler is the one who can play them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Practical wisdom is the chief virtue for rulers; others need it too, while subjects rely on correct opinion.
In simple terms: Rulers need practical wisdom; subjects need correct opinion.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate practical wisdom if you lead.
Themes
leadership
virtue
wisdom
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- education
- decision making
- governance
Key Concepts
practical wisdom
correct opinion
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders develop practical wisdom?
- What role does correct opinion play for citizens?
A Different Perspective
Rulers may lack practical wisdom despite education.