“False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil.”
- 470 BC – 399 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher
- Teacher of Plato, who contributed to the development of ethics and dialectics
Quote
“False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil.”
Explanation
In this quote, Socrates emphasizes the corrupting power of falsehoods and the damage they can do to a person’s character. He suggests that lies and false words are not just harmful because they deceive others, but because they also have the ability to contaminate the soul of the person who speaks them. When we speak falsely, we not only stray from the truth, but we also foster negative qualities within ourselves, such as dishonesty, mistrust, and moral corruption. Socrates highlights the idea that truthfulness is essential to maintaining a pure soul and a virtuous life. The more we engage in falsehoods, the further we move away from virtue and moral integrity.
Historically, Socrates viewed the pursuit of truth as a central pillar of his philosophical work. He often argued that the soul, or the inner self, is shaped by the beliefs and values we hold. Lies, he believed, did not merely obscure the truth, they actively corrupted the moral fabric of the person who tells them. This idea reflects his broader commitment to integrity and authenticity. Socrates thought that by constantly seeking and speaking the truth, we strengthen our character and bring our soul into harmony with justice and virtue.
In the modern world, this quote is a reminder of the impact that falsehoods can have, not only on relationships but also on our own moral development. In an age where misinformation is widespread, Socrates’ warning reminds us that lying can have serious consequences, not only for others but also for our own integrity. By valuing honesty and committing to truthfulness in both our words and actions, we protect our own character and contribute to a more trustworthy and just society. Falsehoods, in this sense, are not just external misdeeds—they infect our very being and weaken the moral foundation on which we build our lives.
