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... our purpose in founding our state was not to promote the happiness of a single class, but, so far as possible, of the whole community. Our idea was that we were most likely to justice in such a community, and so be able to decide the question we are trying to answer. We are therefore at the moment trying to construct what we think is a happy community by securing the happiness not of a select minority, but of a whole.
Plato
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of collective happiness over the happiness of a privileged few.

Plato's quote articulates the philosophy that a just society should strive to promote the well-being of the entire community rather than catering to the needs of a select group. It suggests that true justice and happiness can only be achieved when all members of society are considered, thereby fostering a sense of unity and equality.

Themes

CommunityHappinessJusticePhilosophySociety

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a speech about community service to emphasize inclusivity.

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Quote by Plato | QuoteProject