Action Quote by Plato
“The point which I should first wish to understand is whether the pious or holy is beloved by the gods because it is holy, or holy because it is beloved of the gods.”
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Euthyphro, Plato, c. 380 BC
The dilemma asks whether piety is valued by gods because it is inherently holy, or holy because gods love it.
In simple terms: Question of divine approval vs. intrinsic goodness.
Key Takeaway
Consider the source of moral values.
Themes
ethics
divine command
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
dialogue
When to use this quote
- theological debate
- ethical reasoning
- lawmaking
- personal belief
Key Concepts
moral ontology
religious authority
Questions to Reflect On
- Is morality independent of divine will?
- How do different cultures resolve this?
A Different Perspective
May ignore cultural variations in divine concepts.
