Children Quote by Plutarch
“Lysander, when Dionysius sent him two gowns, and bade him choose which he would carry to his daughter, said, "She can choose best," and so took both away with him.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Parallel Lives, Plutarch, 1st century AD
Lysander shows that offering a choice can be a tactic to gain advantage, then taking everything anyway.
In simple terms: Choosing can be a trap; he took both.
Beware hidden motives in offers.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- business deals
- diplomatic talks
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How often do you give choices to conceal true intent?
- What are the ethical limits of strategic deception?
It may backfire if the other party feels betrayed.