Skip to content

Famous book Quote by Anonymous

“On the one hand, they must develop virtuous habits of behavior; and on the other, they must develop their mental powers through the study of such disciplines as mathematics and philosophy. Both of these types of instruction are necessary. To begin with, some people may not have the intellectual…” quote by Anonymous
Download Open image
““On the one hand, they must develop virtuous habits of behavior; and on the other, they must develop their mental powers through the study of such disciplines as mathematics and philosophy. Both of these types of instruction are necessary. To begin with, some people may not have the intellectual capacity to acquire knowledge; they will not be able to understand what the “good life” is, just as others do not have the intellectual power to apprehend higher mathematics. But if they imitate and are guided by those people who have knowledge of the good and who accordingly act virtuously, they, too, will act virtuously even though they do not understand the essential nature of the good life. On the basis of this sort of reasoning, Plato goes on to advocate the necessity of censorship in what he calls an “ideal society”—the society that is portrayed in his most famous book, the Republic. Plato feels that it is necessary to prevent young people from being exposed to certain sorts of experiences if they are to develop virtuous habits and thus lead a good life. ========== Philosophy Made Simple (Richard H. Popkin;Avrum Stroll)””

Anonymous

About This Quote

Source Book: Philosophy Made Simple, Richard H. Popkin & Avrum Stroll, 2005

Plato argues that both moral habit formation and intellectual training are essential; for those lacking capacity, imitation of virtuous role models can foster virtue.

In simple terms: Virtue needs habit and intellect; imitation helps those less capable.

Key Takeaway

Develop habits and learn from virtuous mentors.

Themes

education virtue role models

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • parenting
  • mentoring programs
  • community education

Key Concepts

Plato’s Republic censorship intellectual development

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can virtue be genuine without comprehension?
  • How can societies balance guidance with personal freedom?
A Different Perspective

Relying on imitation may not foster true understanding or critical thinking.

2.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Anonymous

Explore all 163,108 Anonymous quotes

More Famous book quotes

Browse all 35 Famous book quotes