HIPPIAS (minor) by Plato - Complete text

Page 14

Eud.: But I do not think, Socrates, that Hippias will require any entreaty of mine; for he has already said that he will refuse to answer no man.—Did you not say so, Hippias?

Hipp.: Yes, I did; but then, Eudicus, Socrates is always troublesome in an argument, and appears to be dishonest. (Compare Gorgias; Republic.)

Socr.: Excellent Hippias, I do not do so intentionally (if I did, it would show me to be a wise man and a master of wiles, as you would argue), but unintentionally, and therefore you must pardon me; for, as you say, he who is unintentionally dishonest should be pardoned.

Eud.: Yes, Hippias, do as he says; and for our sake, and also that you may not belie your profession, answer whatever Socrates asks you.

Hipp.: I will answer, as you request me; and do you ask whatever you like.

Socr.: I am very desirous, Hippias, of examining this question, as to which are the better—those who err voluntarily or involuntarily? And if you will answer me, I think that I can put you in the way of approaching the subject: You would admit, would you not, that there are good runners?

Hipp.: Yes.

Socr.: And there are bad runners?

Hipp.: Yes.

Socr.: And he who runs well is a good runner, and he who runs ill is a bad runner?

Hipp.: Very true.

Socr.: And he who runs slowly runs ill, and he who runs quickly runs well?

Hipp.: Yes.

Socr.: Then in a race, and in running, swiftness is a good, and slowness is an evil quality?

Hipp.: To be sure.

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Plato : HIPPIAS (minor)

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