… the good are not willing to rule either for the sake of money or of honor.

Plato’s quote, “the good are not willing to rule either for the sake of money or of honor,” is a profound statement about the motivations of virtuous individuals when it comes to leadership. The quote suggests that those who are truly good, or virtuous, do not seek positions of power for personal gain or accolades. Instead, their motivation to lead stems from a desire to serve, to make a positive difference, and to uphold justice and fairness.

In essence, Plato is highlighting the difference between self-serving leaders and servant leaders. The former are driven by ego, personal gain, and a desire for recognition. They view leadership as a means to an end, a way to accumulate wealth, status, and power. On the other hand, servant leaders, who Plato refers to as “the good,” see leadership as a responsibility, a calling to serve others, and a platform to effect positive change.

Applying this idea to today’s world, it provides a lens through which to evaluate our leaders. It encourages us to question the motivations of those in power and to critically assess whether they are ruling for the sake of money and honor, or if they are genuinely driven by a desire to serve their constituents. This also serves as a reminder for those aspiring to be leaders, to check their motivations, to ensure that their desire to lead is not rooted in personal gain but in the willingness to serve and make a difference.

In terms of personal development, Plato’s idea encourages individuals to cultivate selflessness, humility, and a service-oriented mindset. It prompts us to strive for personal growth not for the sake of personal gain or recognition, but to better serve our communities and society at large. It also reminds us that true honor and respect come not from the pursuit of power, but from the willingness to use whatever power we have to benefit others.