“Virtue is relative to the actions and ages of each of us in all that we do.”
- 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.
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Quote
“Virtue is relative to the actions and ages of each of us in all that we do.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato suggests that virtue is not a fixed, one-size-fits-all concept but rather something that is relative to the individual’s stage in life and circumstances. The actions and virtues that are appropriate for one person at a particular age or stage of life might differ from what is expected of someone else. For example, the virtue of courage might manifest differently in a young person just beginning to learn the value of responsibility than in an older person who has accumulated wisdom and experience. Similarly, justice might be expressed in a young person’s commitment to fairness and equality, while an older person may demonstrate justice through a lifetime of ethical decisions and the guidance of others.
This perspective on virtue is connected to Plato’s broader philosophy of individual development and the harmony of the soul. In *The Republic*, Plato argues that people have different natural abilities and roles in society, and that virtue for each individual involves fulfilling their role in accordance with their abilities and age. Just as a ruler should embody wisdom, a soldier should embody courage, and a worker should embody temperance, each person’s virtuous actions will be influenced by their stage in life and the role they are fulfilling at any given time.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the idea that personal growth and virtue evolve over time. What is considered virtuous or appropriate at one stage of life may change as a person matures and gains new experiences. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions, understanding that virtue should be adaptable to our current circumstances, responsibilities, and age. Plato’s message urges us to recognize that the journey to moral development is dynamic and personal, shaped by the evolving roles we take on throughout our lives.
