Citizens Quote by Plato
“The form of law which I propose would be as follows: In a state which is desirous of being saved from the greatest of all plagues-not faction, but rather distraction-there should exist among the citizens neither extreme poverty nor, again, excessive wealth, for both are productive of great evil . . . Now the legislator should determine what is to be the limit of poverty or of wealth.”
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: The Republic, Book IV, 380 BC
A just society should avoid both extreme poverty and excessive wealth, as both can cause harm; laws should set limits on each.
In simple terms: Balance wealth and poverty for societal health
Key Takeaway
Seek economic balance, limit extremes
Themes
justice
economics
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government
- taxation
- welfare programs
Key Concepts
distribution
social stability
policy design
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines “excessive” wealth?
- How to enforce limits fairly?
A Different Perspective
Too much regulation may stifle freedom
