Single Idea 341

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 4. External Goods / c. Wealth]

Full Idea

Wealth does not bring about excellence, but excellence makes wealth and everything else good for men.

Clarification

'Excellence' here is the Greek word 'areté', which also translates as 'virtue'

Gist of Idea

Wealth is good if it is accompanied by virtue

Source

Socrates (reports of last days [c.399 BCE]), quoted by Plato - The Apology 30b

Book Reference

Plato: 'Complete Works', ed/tr. Cooper,John M. [Hackett 1997], p.28