Plato Quote by Lucian of Samosata
![“There was no sign of Plato, and I was told later that he had gone to live in his Republic , where he was cheerfully submitting to his own Laws . [...] None of the Stoics were present. Rumour had it that they were still clambering up the steep hill of Virtue [...]. As for the Sceptics, it appeared…” quote by Lucian of Samosata](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f3d/lucian-of-samosata-44085_plato_there-was-no-sign-of-plato-and-i-was-tol_1987041.jpg)
““There was no sign of Plato, and I was told later that he had gone to live in his Republic , where he was cheerfully submitting to his own Laws . [...] None of the Stoics were present. Rumour had it that they were still clambering up the steep hill of Virtue [...]. As for the Sceptics, it appeared that they were extremely anxious to get there, but still could not quite make up their minds whether or not the island really existed.””
About This Quote
Source Satire: The Dialogues of the Dead, 2nd century CE
The passage mocks philosophers' pretensions, suggesting they hide away in abstract ideals rather than engage with reality.
In simple terms: Philosophers hide in theory, not practice.
Key Takeaway
Question the value of abstract theory detached from lived experience.
Themes
philosophy
satire
illusion
detachment
Mood
wry
critical
thoughtful
Type
satirical
philosophical
commentary
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- political discourse
- personal decision making
- ethical reflection
Key Concepts
Socratic irony
idealism
skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prioritize theory over action?
- How can we balance ideals with real-world impact?
A Different Perspective
Abstract ideas can become escapist, ignoring practical consequences.
