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... there is no necessity for the man who means to be an…

“... there is no necessity for the man who means to be an orator to understand what is really just but only what would appear so to the majority of those who will give judgment; and not what is really good or beautiful but whatever will appear so; because persuasion comes from that and not from the…” quote by Plato
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““... there is no necessity for the man who means to be an orator to understand what is really just but only what would appear so to the majority of those who will give judgment; and not what is really good or beautiful but whatever will appear so; because persuasion comes from that and not from the truth.””

Plato

About This Quote

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

Orators should appeal to popular opinion rather than objective truth to persuade audiences.

In simple terms: Speak to what people think, not what is true.

Key Takeaway

Tailor arguments to audience beliefs.

Themes

persuasion ethics politics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • courtroom arguments
  • advertising
  • public debates
  • leadership training

Key Concepts

rhetoric public opinion truth justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever ethical to prioritize majority belief over factual accuracy?
  • How does this affect trust in leadership?
A Different Perspective

May sacrifice truth for acceptance, leading to manipulation.

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