In one sense it is evident that the art of kingship does include the art of lawmaking. But the political ideal is not full authority for laws but rather full authority for a man who understands the art of kingship and has kingly ability.

What is better adapted than the festive use of wine in the first place to test and in the second place to train the character of a man, if care be taken in the use of it? What is there cheaper or more innocent?

If we are to have any hope for the future, those who have lanterns must pass them on to others.

Only those who do not seek power are qualified to hold it.

The soul of man is immortal and imperishable.

I do believe that there are gods, and in a far higher sense than that in which any of my accusers believe in them.

Love is of something, and that which love desires is not that which love is or has; for no man desires that which he is or has. And love is of the beautiful, and therefore has not the beautiful. And the beautiful is the good, and therefore, in wanting and desiring the beautiful, love also wants and desires the good.