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Body Quote by Plato

“Whence comes war and fighting, and factions? Whence but from the body and the lust of the body? Wars are occasioned by the love of money, and money has to be acquired for the same and service of the body.” quote by Plato
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“Whence comes war and fighting, and factions? Whence but from the body and the lust of the body? Wars are occasioned by the love of money, and money has to be acquired for the same and service of the body.”

Plato

About This Quote

Source Dialogue: Republic, Book III, 380 BC

Conflict arises from bodily desires and material greed, which drive people to fight for resources.

In simple terms: Desire for wealth and bodily needs cause war.

Key Takeaway

Address material greed to reduce conflict.

Themes

war greed materialism human nature conflict

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • economic policy
  • personal self-control

Key Concepts

philosophy political theory ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What non‑material factors also fuel war?
  • How can societies curb bodily lust for resources?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring deeper ideological or power dynamics may oversimplify causes.

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