“Nothing can be more absurd than the practice that prevails in our country of men and women not following the same pursuits with all their strengths and with one mind, for thus, the state instead of being whole is reduced to half.”
- 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
“Nothing can be more absurd than the practice that prevails in our country of men and women not following the same pursuits with all their strengths and with one mind, for thus, the state instead of being whole is reduced to half.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato argues that the division of labor based on gender—where men and women are not equally engaged in the same pursuits or roles—results in the weakening of the state. Plato believes that for a society to be truly just and effective, all individuals, regardless of gender, should be able to participate equally in the pursuits that benefit the state, especially in terms of education, government, and service to the common good. By limiting the roles that women can take on, the state is not utilizing the full potential of its citizens, effectively dividing its strength and reducing its capability. In Plato’s ideal society, there is no distinction between the roles that men and women can take on, and both genders are encouraged to develop their abilities and contribute fully to society. Plato’s point is that the state is weakened when the contributions of women are undervalued or excluded.
This idea is part of Plato’s broader vision in *The Republic*, where he argues that the ideal state should be based on meritocracy and justice, not on traditional roles or divisions. He envisions an ideal society where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to develop their natural talents and contribute to society in a way that serves the greater good. For Plato, the notion that women are inherently unqualified for roles like governance, defense, or philosophy was as absurd as saying that men are unfit for certain roles. Equality of opportunity is critical to a just society.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the idea that society as a whole benefits when both men and women are able to contribute fully to all aspects of life, whether in the workplace, politics, or education. Plato’s message encourages the removal of gender-based barriers to participation, recognizing that human potential is not defined by gender but by the individual’s abilities, and that a society is strongest when it harnesses the talents of all its members.
