Against the Sophists

And yet those who desire to follow the true precepts of this discipline may, if they will, be helped more speedily towards honesty of character[*](For the kind of political discourse which Isocrates extols, and its ethical influence see Isoc. 15.275 and General Introd. p. xxiv.) than towards facility in oratory. And let no one suppose that I claim that just living can be taught;[*](See Isoc. 15.274 ff.) for, in a word, I hold that there does not exist an art of the kind which can implant sobriety and justice in depraved natures. Nevertheless, I do think that the study of political discourse can help more than any other thing to stimulate and form such qualities of character.

But in order that I may not appear to be breaking down the pretensions of others while myself making greater claims than are within my powers, I believe that the very arguments by which I myself was convinced will make it clear to others also that these things are true.