Cunning... is but the low mimic of wisdom.

Hearken, O children of discernment, to the piercing words of Plato, who distinguishes the shining path of wisdom from the shadowed guise of cunning. He declares that cunning is but the low mimic of true understanding, a hollow imitation that seeks advantage without virtue, and cleverness without depth. Herein lies a teaching for the ages: the intellect that serves only self-interest and deception may achieve temporary gain, but it falls short of the enduring clarity, virtue, and insight that define genuine wisdom.

The origin of this reflection lies in Plato’s life as philosopher and teacher of the human soul, whose dialogues explored the nature of knowledge, virtue, and justice. In the world of men and states, he observed that many pursue cleverness to manipulate, to win favor, or to evade consequence, yet such stratagems lack the moral and rational foundation of true wisdom. Plato reminds us that the imitation, no matter how artful, cannot surpass the authenticity of understanding guided by reason and virtue.

The meaning of this aphorism is profound: cleverness, deceit, or manipulative skill may appear formidable, but it is merely a shadow when measured against the full light of wisdom. True understanding integrates reason, ethics, and foresight, whereas cunning relies on superficial advantage and short-term gain. Plato teaches that the soul’s ascent requires the pursuit of wisdom in its purest form, lest one be ensnared by illusions of intelligence that lack moral weight.

History provides vivid testimony to this truth. Consider Niccolò Machiavelli, whose treatises on political strategy have often been interpreted as a celebration of cunning. Though clever in insight and practical maneuvering, the absence of moral grounding in his prescriptions illustrates Plato’s warning: cunning may secure fleeting victories, yet it cannot achieve the enduring stability, justice, or honor that wisdom brings to leaders and nations.

Moreover, this teaching extends beyond rulers and philosophers to all who navigate the affairs of life. The merchant who seeks gain through deceit, the scholar who manipulates truths for advantage, and the friend who schemes for self-interest—all exemplify the mimicry Plato condemns. True power and fulfillment, he reminds us, emerge only when skill is married to virtue, insight, and the enduring principles of wisdom.

O generations yet unborn, take this counsel into your hearts: cultivate the deep understanding that transcends mere cleverness, and shun the hollow triumphs of cunning. For imitation may deceive the eyes of men, but only genuine wisdom illuminates the soul, guides action, and endures across the ages as a beacon of reason, virtue, and eternal insight.