Assassin's Creed® Odyssey Uma Lição de Sócrates

Summary

The transcript delves into a philosophical dialogue, reflecting on the power of words, memory, and wisdom. It contrasts the written word, which lacks the ability to defend itself, with the spoken word, which can engage in a dynamic defense of its meaning. The discussion also touches on the nature of control, the illusion of progress through action, and the importance of choosing expression over silence, even at great personal risk. Ultimately, it suggests that true wisdom is found in the words people choose to preserve, rather than in written records that may be misinterpreted.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker reflects on a conversation with a student who requested that the speaker's words be preserved in writing.
• 😀 The speaker contemplates the value of written words and the potential for them to be misused, mimicking wisdom rather than offering true insight.
• 😀 There is a discussion about a mythological story involving the King of Egypt and the god Thoth, who offers the invention of writing as a 'memory elixir.'
• 😀 The King of Egypt expresses concerns that people might stop using their memory if they rely too much on written words, which may give a false sense of wisdom.
• 😀 The speaker believes that written words lack the ability to defend themselves, unlike spoken words, which can be defended and questioned.
• 😀 A preference for speaking over writing is emphasized, as the speaker suggests that written words can be easily misunderstood or taken out of context.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that the words which survive after their death will be those chosen by others, and they will represent true wisdom rather than mere illusion.
• 😀 The speaker reveals an internal conflict about whether to speak freely or remain silent for safety, presenting it as a choice between self-expression and personal risk.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on the idea that action does not always lead to progress and that control, rather than action, is what people truly desire.
• 😀 A caution is given about how too much control can lead to destruction, using the metaphor of driving a powerful car that can crush what it holds.
• 😀 The speaker expresses the value of letting life unfold naturally without forcing outcomes, implying that surrendering to the flow of life may sometimes be the best choice.

Q & A

Why does the speaker reject writing and prefer speaking?

The speaker rejects writing because they believe that written words, unlike spoken ones, cannot defend themselves or engage in a meaningful dialogue. The speaker values the dynamic nature of speech, which can be questioned and defended, unlike static written words.

What does the reference to Thoth and the invention of writing symbolize?

The reference to Thoth symbolizes the tension between writing and memory. Thoth's invention of writing is seen as a threat to memory, as it could cause people to rely on external written sources rather than cultivating their own memory and wisdom.

What is the speaker's view on the concept of wisdom?

The speaker suggests that wisdom is not about the appearance of knowledge, which written words may give, but about the ability to defend and discuss one’s ideas. True wisdom lies in the capacity to question, engage, and defend one’s thoughts.

Why does the speaker claim that written words are an illusion of wisdom?

The speaker believes written words are an illusion of wisdom because they lack the capacity for interaction. Unlike spoken words, written words are static and cannot respond or evolve through questioning, which makes them less authentic in conveying true wisdom.

What does the speaker mean by 'creatures in a painting'?

The 'creatures in a painting' metaphor suggests that written words, like static figures in art, are lifeless and incapable of defending or evolving. They only present one fixed message, unlike spoken words, which can be questioned and elaborated upon.

What is the significance of the speaker's decision to speak rather than write?

The speaker's decision to speak rather than write reflects their belief in the power of direct, verbal expression. Speaking allows for immediate interaction and defense of ideas, making it a more genuine form of sharing wisdom.

How does the speaker view the relationship between action and control?

The speaker distinguishes between action and control, suggesting that while action may give the appearance of progress, it often leads to losing control over outcomes. Control, rather than action, is the true desired state.

What does the speaker mean by 'the more we do, the more we give control to others'?

The speaker argues that excessive action can lead to unintended consequences, where individuals may relinquish control. For example, with powerful cars, the more force they have, the more they can potentially harm or overpower the driver, symbolizing a loss of control.

How does the speaker reconcile the desire for progress with the need for control?

The speaker suggests that sometimes it is better to allow life to flow naturally without forcing outcomes. In some situations, doing less and maintaining control is more desirable than constantly acting to create progress, which can lead to chaos.

What does the speaker's admission of forgetting the question in the letter signify?

The speaker’s admission of forgetting the question highlights the unpredictability and absurdity of life. It reflects the theme of the fleeting nature of thoughts and the impossibility of holding onto everything, underscoring the speaker's philosophical perspective on life's uncertainties.