Cowardice Quote by Plato
“Wherever it has been established that it is shameful to be involved with sexual relationships with men, that is due to evil on the part of the rulers, and to cowardice on the part of the governed.”
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Gorgias (attributed), 4th century BCE
Societal shame around same‑sex relations stems from oppressive rulers and fearful citizens.
In simple terms: Shame is imposed by power and fear.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and societal norms.
Themes
ethics
politics
sex
power
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- legal reform
- human rights activism
- education
- cultural critique
Key Concepts
oppression
fear
social constructs
Questions to Reflect On
- Is shame a tool of control?
- How can societies foster acceptance?
A Different Perspective
Historical context varies; modern views differ.
![“It is probably not true to say that there was a physical homosexual relationship between [Rudolf Hess and Hitler] but the attraction was there.” quote by Ernst Hanfstaengl](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5d7/ernst-hanfstaengl-38129_attraction_it-is-probably-not-true-to-say-that-ther_168596.jpg)
![“[D]on't grow old. With age comes caution, which is another name for cowardice… Whatever else you do in life, don't cultivate a conscience. Without a conscience a man may never be said to grow old. This is an age of very old young men.” quote by Hesketh Pearson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/076/hesketh-pearson-35291_age_d-on-t-grow-old-with-age-comes-caution-w_14010.jpg)
