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The form of law which I propose would be as follows: In a…

“The form of law which I propose would be as follows: In a state which is desirous of being saved from the greatest of all plagues-not faction, but rather distraction-there should exist among the citizens neither extreme poverty nor, again, excessive wealth, for both are productive of great evil…” quote by Plato
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“The form of law which I propose would be as follows: In a state which is desirous of being saved from the greatest of all plagues-not faction, but rather distraction-there should exist among the citizens neither extreme poverty nor, again, excessive wealth, for both are productive of great evil . . . Now the legislator should determine what is to be the limit of poverty or of wealth.”

Plato

About This Quote

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

A just society should avoid both extreme poverty and excessive wealth, as both can cause harm; laws should set limits on each.

In simple terms: Balance wealth and poverty for societal health

Key Takeaway

Seek economic balance, limit extremes

Themes

justice economics ethics

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government
  • taxation
  • welfare programs

Key Concepts

distribution social stability policy design

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines “excessive” wealth?
  • How to enforce limits fairly?
A Different Perspective

Too much regulation may stifle freedom

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