“Those who intend on becoming great should love neither themselves nor their own things, but only what is just, whether it happens to be done by themselves or others.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
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Quote
“Those who intend on becoming great should love neither themselves nor their own things, but only what is just, whether it happens to be done by themselves or others.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato asserts that greatness is not achieved by self-interest or attachment to personal possessions, but by dedicating oneself to justice and the greater good. He suggests that individuals who seek true excellence must transcend their own egos and personal desires, focusing instead on what is just and virtuous. Greatness, in Plato’s view, is about aligning one’s actions with the principles of justice, regardless of who carries out those actions—whether it is oneself or others. This reflects Plato’s belief that the pursuit of moral and philosophical ideals should guide one’s actions, rather than a focus on self-glorification or material gain.
This idea connects to Plato’s broader philosophy on virtue and the ideal state, as discussed in *The Republic*. In his vision of a just society, individuals must perform the role for which they are best suited, contributing to the common good rather than pursuing personal ambitions. A ruler, for example, should not seek power for its own sake, but only to serve justice and the welfare of the state. Similarly, in personal life, one should strive to act in accordance with moral principles and reason, rather than for selfish or self-serving reasons.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the concept of selflessness and the importance of prioritizing moral integrity over personal ambition. Whether in leadership, business, or relationships, true greatness comes from focusing on the common good, making decisions based on what is right rather than what benefits oneself. Plato’s message encourages us to move beyond self-centeredness and embrace a higher purpose—justice, virtue, and wisdom—as the guiding principles for personal and societal greatness.
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