Abuse Quote by Plato
“And we shall most likely be defeated, and you will most likely be victors in the contest, if you learn so to order your lives as not to abuse or waste the reputation of your ancestors, knowing that to a man who has any self-respect, nothing is more dishonourable than to be honoured, not for his own sake, but on account of the reputation of his ancestors.”
About This Quote
The quote warns that living solely to uphold ancestral reputation, without personal integrity, is dishonorable; true honor comes from self-respect, not inherited prestige.
In simple terms: Honor must stem from personal virtue, not just lineage.
Key Takeaway
Self-respect outweighs inherited reputation.
Themes
integrity
honor
legacy
self-respect
authenticity
pride
Mood
reflective
serious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
advice
maxim
When to use this quote
- navigating family expectations
- making career choices
- public leadership
- cultural traditions
- personal decision‑making
Key Concepts
reputation
ancestors
personal virtue
social expectations
Practical Applications
- ethical leadership
- personal development
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reliance on ancestral reputation affect personal growth?
- What does true honor look like in modern society?
