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Again, truth should be highly valued; if, as we were…

“Again, truth should be highly valued; if, as we were saying, a lie is useless to the gods, and useful only as a medicine to men, then the use of such medicines should be restricted to physicians; private individuals have no business with them.” quote by Plato
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“Again, truth should be highly valued; if, as we were saying, a lie is useless to the gods, and useful only as a medicine to men, then the use of such medicines should be restricted to physicians; private individuals have no business with them.”

Plato

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Truth is essential; lies may help humans like medicine but must be limited to experts, not ordinary people.

In simple terms: Truth matters; lies are like medicine for people.

Key Takeaway

Reserve truth for experts, not laypeople.

Themes

ethics knowledge responsibility

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • law
  • medicine
  • media
  • education
  • public policy

Key Concepts

philosophy political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who should decide when deception is permissible?
  • How does expertise affect truth‑telling?
A Different Perspective

Truth alone cannot solve all problems; expertise is needed.

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