“I have hardly ever known a mathematician who was capable of reasoning.”
- 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.
Quote
“I have hardly ever known a mathematician who was capable of reasoning.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato seems to criticize the limitation of mathematics as practiced by some mathematicians, suggesting that while they may be skilled in calculations and technical skills, they often lack the ability to reason or think philosophically. Plato differentiates between mathematical expertise—which involves manipulating abstract concepts, formulas, and rules—and true reasoning, which requires the ability to explore deeper truths and make connections beyond rigid formulas. For Plato, reasoning involves not just technical skill, but the capacity to understand and reflect on the nature of reality, justice, ethics, and other fundamental philosophical questions.
This idea aligns with Plato’s broader philosophy, where he argues that knowledge and wisdom go beyond technical proficiency in any one field. In *The Republic*, he suggests that philosophers—those who seek wisdom through reasoning and contemplation of eternal truths—are the ideal rulers, as they have the capacity to understand what is truly good, just, and virtuous. Mathematical knowledge is valuable, but for Plato, reasoning—the ability to apply wisdom and critical thinking to all areas of life—is more important.
In modern contexts, this quote can be understood as a reminder that while technical knowledge is essential in many fields, the ability to think critically and apply reasoning to the world around us is even more crucial. Whether in science, business, or society, success depends not only on mastering specific skills or disciplines but also on being able to reason through problems, think creatively, and connect ideas in ways that lead to deeper understanding and better solutions.
