Children Quote by Plato
![“Tell us what complaint you have to make against us which justifies you in attempting to destroy us and the State? In the first place did we not bring you into existence? …[S]ince you were brought into the world and nurtured and educated by us, can you deny in the first place that you are our child…” quote by Plato](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/177/plato-103_children_tell-us-what-complaint-you-have-to-make_2316405.jpg)
““Tell us what complaint you have to make against us which justifies you in attempting to destroy us and the State? In the first place did we not bring you into existence? …[S]ince you were brought into the world and nurtured and educated by us, can you deny in the first place that you are our child and slave, as your fathers were before you?””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Gorgias, 380 BC
The speaker challenges the opponent to justify aggression against the state that created them.
In simple terms: Question the morality of attacking one's own society.
Key Takeaway
Consider the roots of conflict before acting.
Themes
politics
justice
identity
Mood
critical
provocative
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political debate
- civil protest
- education reform
Key Concepts
social contract
ethics
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do we owe to societies that shape us?
- Can rebellion be justified?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes a simplistic master‑slave view, ignoring nuance.
