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Body Quote by Plato

“For neither does wealth bring honour to the owner, if he be a coward; of such a one the wealth belongs to another, and not to himself. Nor does beauty and strength of body, when dwelling in a base and cowardly man, appear comely, but the reverse of comely, making the possessor more conspicuous…” quote by Plato
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“For neither does wealth bring honour to the owner, if he be a coward; of such a one the wealth belongs to another, and not to himself. Nor does beauty and strength of body, when dwelling in a base and cowardly man, appear comely, but the reverse of comely, making the possessor more conspicuous, and manifesting forth his cowardice.”

Plato

About This Quote

Source Dialogue: The Republic, Book III, Plato, c. 380 BC

Wealth, beauty, and strength are meaningless if the holder lacks virtue; they reveal inner cowardice.

In simple terms: Virtue outweighs material gifts.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate courage and moral character.

Themes

ethics philosophy virtue

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • personal development
  • public service

Key Concepts

moral psychology value theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does inner virtue affect external perception?
  • Can wealth be ethical without virtue?
A Different Perspective

Material success can mask moral failings.

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