Common good Quote by Allan Bloom
““The real community of man, in the midst of all the self-contradictory simulacra of community, is the community of those who seek the truth, of the potential knowers...of all men to the extent they desire to know. But in fact, this includes only a few, the true friends, as Plato was to Aristotle at the very moment they were disagreeing about the nature of the good...They were absolutely one soul as they looked at the problem. This, according to Plato, is the only real friendship, the only real common good. It is here that the contact people so desperately seek is to be found...This is the meaning of the riddle of the improbable philosopher-kings. They have a true community that is exemplary for all other communities.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Closing of the American Mind by Allan Bloom, 1987
True friendship arises when people pursue truth together, transcending superficial community ties.
In simple terms: Friendship based on shared pursuit of truth.
Key Takeaway
Seek truth with others.
Themes
philosophy
friendship
truth
community
politics
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- political activism
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Platonic ideal
philosopher‑kings
common good
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be a true friend?
- How can we foster truth‑seeking communities?
A Different Perspective
True community is rare and requires intellectual honesty.
