“A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is a mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing true.”
- 470 BC – 399 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher
- Teacher of Plato, who contributed to the development of ethics and dialectics
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Quote
“A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is a mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing true.”
Explanation
In this quote, Socrates critiques moral systems that are based solely on emotional or subjective values. He suggests that if morality is determined by personal feelings, emotions, or fluctuating desires, it lacks universality, objectivity, and stability. A moral system grounded in emotions can change based on how one feels at any given moment, which Socrates argues makes it unreliable and fundamentally flawed. For Socrates, true morality is rooted in reason and virtue, and should not be subject to the whims of temporary emotional states. He emphasizes that morality must be based on eternal truths and objective standards, not on individual or cultural emotions, which can vary widely.
Historically, Socrates saw the human soul as the key to understanding right and wrong. He believed that reason, guided by wisdom and virtue, was the true path to knowing what is right. Socrates rejected moral relativism—the idea that morality is subjective and changes based on personal feelings or societal norms—in favor of a more universal and immutable conception of morality. His teachings emphasized that moral truths are not based on how we feel in the moment but on an understanding of what is just, good, and true.
In the modern world, this quote challenges us to reflect on how we form our moral beliefs. Socrates warns against relying solely on emotional reactions or personal biases when determining what is right or wrong. Instead, we are encouraged to look for objective truths and engage in rational reflection when making ethical decisions. Whether in politics, relationships, or social issues, Socrates invites us to move beyond fluctuating emotional values and seek a more grounded, principled approach to morality—one that is rooted in reason and universal justice.
