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But he who has been earnest in the love of knowledge and…

“But he who has been earnest in the love of knowledge and of true wisdom, and has exercised his intellect more than any other part of him, must have thoughts immortal and divine. If he attain truth, and in so far as human nature is capable of sharing in immortality, he must altogether be immortal.” quote by Plato
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“But he who has been earnest in the love of knowledge and of true wisdom, and has exercised his intellect more than any other part of him, must have thoughts immortal and divine. If he attain truth, and in so far as human nature is capable of sharing in immortality, he must altogether be immortal.”

Plato

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that devoted intellectual pursuit of true wisdom leads to an immortal, divine quality of thought, suggesting that truth‑seeking transcends ordinary human limits.

In simple terms: Seeking true wisdom makes thoughts timeless.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate deep, honest study of truth.

Themes

philosophy immortality intellect wisdom

Mood

contemplative inspired serene

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal meditation
  • ethical decision‑making
  • teaching
  • creative problem solving

Key Concepts

Platonic metaphysics eternal soul intellectual virtue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your pursuit of knowledge shape your sense of self?
  • Can intellectual growth ever be truly immortal?
A Different Perspective

Immortality of thought is metaphorical, not literal; true wisdom may still be limited by human fallibility.

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