Socrates Quote by Plato
““SOCRATES: For doing evil to another is the same as injuring him? CRITO: Very true. SOCRATES: Then we ought not to retaliate or render evil for evil to anyone, whatever evil we may have suffered from him.””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Crito, Plato, c. 399 BC
Socrates argues that harming another is equivalent to injuring them, so retaliation is unjust.
In simple terms: Do not repay harm with harm.
Key Takeaway
Choose non‑retaliation.
Themes
ethics
justice
non‑violence
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal conflict
- legal disputes
- interpersonal betrayal
- social injustice
Key Concepts
reciprocity
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it always possible to avoid retaliation?
- What does justice mean without punishment?
A Different Perspective
Retaliation may be seen as necessary for self‑defense.
