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Aim Quote by Plutarch

“We ought to regard books as we do sweetmeats, not wholly to aim at the pleasantest, but chiefly to respect the wholesomest; not forbidding either, but approving the latter most.” quote by Plutarch
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“We ought to regard books as we do sweetmeats, not wholly to aim at the pleasantest, but chiefly to respect the wholesomest; not forbidding either, but approving the latter most.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

Source Treat: Moralia, "On the Education of Children", 2nd century AD

Books should be valued for their nourishing, moral content more than mere pleasure, though enjoyment is not excluded.

In simple terms: Prioritize wholesome over merely pleasant reading.

Key Takeaway

Choose books that build character.

Themes

education morality literature balance

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

didactic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • school curricula
  • personal growth
  • parental guidance
  • library selection

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics cognitive development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What book has shaped your values most?
  • How do you balance enjoyment and moral instruction?
A Different Perspective

Pleasure can be essential; neglecting it may reduce engagement.

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