“Knowledge without justice ought to be called cunning rather than wisdom.”
- 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
“Knowledge without justice ought to be called cunning rather than wisdom.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato distinguishes between true wisdom and mere knowledge. He argues that knowledge, when not guided by justice, is not wisdom but rather cunning—a manipulation of facts for personal gain or self-interest. For Plato, wisdom is not simply about knowing facts or acquiring information; it is the ability to apply knowledge in a way that is ethically sound, fair, and in service of the common good. Knowledge without the ethical foundation of justice can be dangerous, as it can be used to deceive, exploit, or control others. Therefore, wisdom, in Plato’s view, requires both intellectual understanding and a commitment to moral principles.
This idea aligns with Plato’s broader philosophy in which knowledge and virtue are inseparable. In *The Republic*, he discusses how the philosopher-king, the ideal ruler, must possess both wisdom and moral integrity to govern justly. A ruler with knowledge but without a sense of justice could use their knowledge for selfish purposes, leading to tyranny or exploitation. Knowledge alone, without justice, lacks the necessary moral compass to guide its use for the benefit of society.
In modern terms, this quote can be applied to areas such as leadership, business, or even education, where knowledge without ethical considerations can lead to manipulation, corruption, or harm. For example, in the business world, individuals or companies with technical knowledge but no sense of ethical responsibility may exploit workers or consumers for profit. Similarly, in politics, leaders who wield knowledge without a sense of justice may manipulate the truth to further their own agendas. Plato’s warning encourages a more holistic view of wisdom, one that includes ethical judgment and an unwavering commitment to justice as a necessary component of true wisdom.
