“All men are by nature equal, made all of the same earth by one Workman; and however we deceive ourselves, as dear unto God is the poor peasant as the mighty prince.”
- 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
“All men are by nature equal, made all of the same earth by one Workman; and however we deceive ourselves, as dear unto God is the poor peasant as the mighty prince.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato emphasizes the fundamental equality of all human beings. He suggests that all people are created by the same universal force (referred to as the “Workman”) from the same earth, and thus have an inherent dignity and value that transcends social or economic status. Plato acknowledges that humans often deceive themselves by placing different values on individuals based on their social rank, wealth, or power, but he insists that in the eyes of God, a poor peasant is just as precious as a mighty prince. This is a reminder of the inherent worth of every person, regardless of their material circumstances, and challenges the societal distinctions that often divide us.
Plato’s perspective aligns with his philosophy of justice and virtue in *The Republic*, where he suggests that the ideal society functions best when people are valued not for their wealth or status, but for their wisdom, virtue, and moral character. In his view, each individual has a role in society, and justice is achieved when people fulfill their natural roles based on their abilities, not on their social class or external factors.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with the idea of human equality and the recognition of intrinsic worth beyond wealth, status, or title. It challenges us to reconsider how we value individuals in society, urging us to treat all people with dignity and respect, regardless of their social or economic position. Plato’s message encourages us to see beyond superficial differences and to recognize the shared humanity in each person.
