“Many evil men are rich, and good men poor, But we shall not exchange with them our excellence for riches.”
This powerful statement, attributed to the Greek historian and philosopher Plutarch, cuts to the heart of a timeless dilemma. It forces us to confront our values. We must decide what truly constitutes wealth. For centuries, this quote has served as a moral compass. It challenges the common assumption that financial success equals a successful life. Instead, it champions the enduring value of inner character over external possessions.
The quote presents a stark observation about the world. It suggests an inverse relationship between wealth and virtue. While not a universal rule, it reflects a recurring pattern in human society. Let’s explore the profound meaning behind these words and their relevance in our modern lives.
The Two Sides of the Coin: Wealth and Virtue
Plutarch begins with a blunt assessment: “Many evil men are rich, and good men poor.” This is not a cynical declaration but a realistic observation. The relentless pursuit of wealth can often require a person to compromise their principles. Cutting corners, exploiting others, or engaging in dishonest practices may lead to financial gain. Consequently, those who prioritize profit above all else might accumulate great riches.
Conversely, individuals who live by a strong moral code may find their path to wealth more challenging. They might refuse to engage in unethical business deals. They may prioritize fair treatment of employees over maximizing profits. Their goodness, their commitment to doing what is right, can sometimes place them at a financial disadvantage. This doesn’t mean good people cannot be wealthy. It simply highlights that the path of virtue does not always align with the path of least resistance to riches.
The Resolute Choice: Excellence Over Riches
The quote’s true power lies in its second half: “But we shall not exchange with them our excellence for riches.” This is not a lament but a declaration of strength. It is a conscious, deliberate choice. The word “excellence” here is a translation of the Greek word aretē. This concept is central to ancient Greek philosophy. It signifies more than just skill; it means moral virtue, integrity, and the fulfillment of one’s potential as a human being.
Therefore, Plutarch is stating that we should never trade our integrity for money. Our character is our most valuable possession. It is the one thing that is truly our own. While riches can be lost, a strong moral character provides a foundation of self-respect and inner peace that money cannot buy. This choice represents the ultimate form of personal sovereignty. It is the refusal to let the world’s corrupting influences define our worth.
The Wisdom of Plutarch
To fully appreciate the quote, it helps to understand its source. Source Plutarch was a Greek biographer and essayist who lived during the height of the Roman Empire. He was deeply interested in what makes a person good. His writings often compared the lives of famous Greeks and Romans to draw lessons about morality and virtue.
His philosophy was steeped in Platonism and showed Stoic influences. These schools of thought emphasized that true happiness comes from living a virtuous life, not from external circumstances like wealth or fame. For Plutarch, a person’s actions and character were the ultimate measure of their life. This intellectual background makes his statement not just a clever saying, but the product of a lifetime spent studying human nature.
Arete: The Ultimate Treasure
The concept of aretē, or excellence, is key to unlocking the quote’s meaning. The ancient Greeks believed that the goal of life was to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as