Authority Quote by Plato
“So the state founded on natural principles is wise as a whole in virtue of the knowledge inherent in its smallest constituent class, which exercises authority over the rest. And the smallest class is the one which naturally possesses that form of knowledge which alone of all others deserves the title of wisdom.”
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: The Republic, Plato, c. 380 BC
A state built on natural, inherent knowledge is wise; the smallest class possessing true wisdom governs the whole.
In simple terms: Wisdom from natural knowledge guides society.
Key Takeaway
Seek natural wisdom in governance.
Themes
politics
wisdom
natural law
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education reform
- community leadership
- ethical AI
Key Concepts
philosophy
epistemology
governance
Questions to Reflect On
- What constitutes “natural knowledge”?
- How can societies identify the “smallest class” with wisdom?
A Different Perspective
Natural knowledge may be hard to define or agree upon.
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