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Assembly Quote by Pierre Hadot

“Every person - whether Greek or Barbarian - who is in training for wisdom, leading a blameless, irreproachable life, chooses neither to commit injustice nor return it unto others, but to avoid the company of busybodies, and hold in contempt the places where they spend their time - courts…” quote by Pierre Hadot
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“Every person - whether Greek or Barbarian - who is in training for wisdom, leading a blameless, irreproachable life, chooses neither to commit injustice nor return it unto others, but to avoid the company of busybodies, and hold in contempt the places where they spend their time - courts, councils, marketplaces, assemblies - in short, every kind of meeting or reunion of thoughtless people. ... People such as these, who find their joy in virtue, celebrate a festival their whole life long.”

Pierre Hadot

About This Quote

Source Treat: Discourses on Philosophy by Pierre Hadot, 1995

True wisdom requires avoiding injustice and the company of idle, thoughtless gatherings, focusing instead on virtuous living.

In simple terms: Wisdom means shunning injustice and meaningless crowds, seeking virtue.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate virtue by choosing purposeful, ethical associations.

Themes

wisdom virtue social conduct

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • political meetings
  • social media
  • community events
  • workplace gatherings

Key Concepts

ethics philosophy self‑discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gatherings truly enrich your mind?
  • How can you balance solitude with community?
A Different Perspective

Avoiding all social interaction can lead to isolation and missed opportunities for growth.

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