Communication Quote by Plato
““Stranger: 'Are not thought and speech the same, with this exception, that what is called thought is the unuttered conversation of the soul with herself? Theatetus: Quite true. Stranger: But the stream of thought which flows through the lips and is audible is called speech? Theatetus: True. Stranger: And we know that there exists in speech... Theatetus: What exists? Stranger: Affirmation Theatetus: Yes, we know it.””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Theaetetus, Plato, c. 369 BC
Thought is internal, speech external; they differ yet are linked as expression of the soul.
In simple terms: Thought is silent, speech is spoken.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the bridge between mind and words.
Themes
philosophy
language
mind
Mood
inquisitive
analytical
Type
philosophical
dialogue
When to use this quote
- teaching
- debate
- personal introspection
- writing
Key Concepts
communication
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape thought?
- Can we ever fully express our inner self?
A Different Perspective
Speech can misrepresent inner thoughts.
