But, surely, if this is true, the complexion or
height of a man, or any other advantage, will be a reason for his
obtaining a greater share of political rights. The error here lies
upon the surface, and may be illustrated from the other arts and
sciences. When a number of flute players are equal in their art, there
is no reason why those of them who are better born should have
better flutes given to them; for they will not play any better on
the flute, and the superior instrument should be reserved for him
who is the superior artist. If what I am saying is still obscure, it
will be made clearer as we proceed. For if there were a superior
flute-player who was far inferior in birth and beauty, although either
of these may be a greater good than the art of flute-playing, and
may excel flute-playing in a greater ratio than he excels the others
in his art, still he ought to have the best flutes given to him,
unless the advantages of wealth and birth contribute to excellence
in flute-playing, which they do not. Moreover, upon this principle any
good may be compared with any other. For if a given height may be
measured wealth and against freedom, height in general may be so
measured. Thus if A excels in height more than B in virtue, even if
virtue in general excels height still more, all goods will be
commensurable; for if a certain amount is better than some other, it
is clear that some other will be equal.
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