“As to marriage or celibacy, let a man take which course he will, he will be sure to repent.”
- 470 BC – 399 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher
- Teacher of Plato, who contributed to the development of ethics and dialectics
Quote
“As to marriage or celibacy, let a man take which course he will, he will be sure to repent.”
Explanation
In this quote, Socrates humorously reflects on the inevitability of regret that accompanies major life choices, particularly the decision between marriage and celibacy. He suggests that regardless of which path one chooses, whether entering into the complexities of marriage or remaining single, the individual will eventually feel dissatisfaction or remorse for the choice made. This perspective highlights the human tendency to idealize one option and later question its consequences. Socrates implies that neither path is free from its own challenges and sacrifices, and that the pursuit of happiness in either case often leads to unforeseen difficulties.
Historically, Socrates lived in a time where marriage was seen as a social and familial duty, yet his own life, marked by a complicated relationship with his wife, Xanthippe, suggests that he did not view either marriage or celibacy as inherently fulfilling. For Socrates, the pursuit of philosophical wisdom and personal growth was paramount, and he may have seen both marriage and celibacy as distractions from this higher goal. His quote can be read as a lighthearted commentary on the complexity of human relationships, suggesting that no matter the choice, it will always bring its own set of regrets.
In the modern world, this quote resonates with the common human experience of questioning life choices and reflecting on personal decisions. Whether in marriage, celibacy, or other significant life choices, people often face the challenge of balancing external expectations, personal desires, and unforeseen consequences. Socrates’ statement can remind us that regret is a natural part of life and that no choice is perfect. Instead of seeking to avoid regret altogether, we can focus on making thoughtful decisions that align with our deeper values, while accepting that all paths come with trade-offs and challenges.
