Cities Quote by Plato
“Until philosophers rule as kings or those who are now called kings and leading men genuinely and adequately philosophise, that is, until political power and philosophy entirely coincide, while the many natures who at present pursue either one exclusively are forcibly prevented from doing so, cities will have no rest from evils,... nor, I think, will the human race.”
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Republic, Book V, Plato, c. 380 BC
Society will remain troubled until rulers are true philosophers and philosophy guides politics, preventing division of thought and power.
In simple terms: Peace needs philosopher‑rulers and unified governance.
Key Takeaway
Seek wisdom in leadership.
Themes
politics
philosophy
justice
governance
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government reform
- education policy
- leadership training
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Platonism
ideal state
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Can true philosophers govern effectively?
- What safeguards prevent power abuse?
A Different Perspective
Philosopher‑rulers are rare and may be impractical.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
