“To be sure I must; and therefore I may assume that your silence gives consent.”
- 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
“To be sure I must; and therefore I may assume that your silence gives consent.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato explores the idea that silence can be interpreted as approval or agreement, particularly when someone does not actively object or speak out against something. The statement implies that, in the absence of dissent or contradiction, one can reasonably assume that the other party agrees with what is being proposed or done. In this context, the speaker is taking the lack of response as a form of consent, which can be a common assumption in both conversation and decision-making processes.
This quote speaks to the broader human tendency to assume agreement when there is no vocal opposition. However, it also raises ethical questions about communication and consent—highlighting that silence does not always equal agreement, and that assumptions should be made with caution, especially when it comes to important decisions. Plato’s suggestion that silence can be construed as consent may also reflect on the passive role people sometimes take in situations, either due to indifference, fear, or lack of engagement.
In modern contexts, this idea touches on the complexity of consent in legal, social, or political environments. For example, silent consent can sometimes be assumed in certain agreements, like contracts or formal decisions, but it is always important to ensure that consent is explicit and informed. Plato’s quote reminds us to be mindful of how we interpret silence and the importance of clear communication and explicit consent in all areas of life, ensuring that it is not simply assumed but voluntarily given.
