“Then not only custom, but also nature affirms that to do is more disgraceful than to suffer injustice, and that justice is equality.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
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Quote
“Then not only custom, but also nature affirms that to do is more disgraceful than to suffer injustice, and that justice is equality.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato explores the concept of justice and its relationship to equality. He suggests that not only societal norms (custom) but also human nature itself supports the idea that it is more disgraceful to commit an unjust act (to do injustice) than to endure it (to suffer injustice). This idea is rooted in Plato’s belief that moral integrity is paramount, and that acting unjustly, even in response to injustice, is a violation of the soul’s natural order. Suffering injustice, while painful, does not tarnish one’s character in the same way that committing injustice does, which corrupts the individual’s soul and violates the principle of justice.
Plato’s notion of justice as equality ties into his broader philosophy in *The Republic*, where he argues that justice arises when everyone performs the role for which they are best suited, creating harmony within the state. In this context, justice is not merely about punishing wrongdoers but about ensuring that every person is treated with fairness and equality in relation to their abilities and contributions. Justice, therefore, does not mean equal treatment in every circumstance, but rather treating people according to their nature and capacity to contribute to the common good.
In modern contexts, this quote can be applied to contemporary debates about social justice, equality, and moral responsibility. In a world where injustice and inequality often seem widespread, the idea that suffering injustice is less disgraceful than committing it challenges us to prioritize moral integrity and fairness over seeking vengeance or retribution. It reminds us that true justice lies in equality—treating others with fairness, dignity, and respect—rather than in the revenge or imbalance that often follows injustice. It also speaks to the idea of personal responsibility: upholding justice by not committing wrongs, even when faced with adversity or harm.
