386–387
Socrates
Socrates. Can things themselves, then, possess such a nature as this, and that of their actions be different? Or are not actions also a class of realities?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Certainly they are.
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Socrates
Socrates. Then actions also are performed according to their own nature, not according to our opinion. For instance, if we undertake to cut anything, ought we to cut it as we wish, and with whatever instrument we wish, or shall we, if we are willing to cut each thing in accordance with the nature of cutting and being cut, and with the natural instrument, succeed in cutting it, and do it rightly, whereas if we try to do it contrary to nature we shall fail and accomplish nothing?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. I think the way is as you suggest.
Socrates
Socrates. Then, too, if we undertake to burn anything, we must burn not according to every opinion, but according to the right one? And that is as each thing naturally burns or is burned and with the natural instrument?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. True.
Socrates
Socrates. And all other actions are to be performed In like manner?
5
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Certainly.
Socrates
Socrates. And speaking is an action, is it not?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Yes.
Socrates
Socrates. Then if a man speaks as he fancies he ought to speak, will he speak rightly, or will he succeed in speaking if he speaks in the way and with the instrument in which and with which it is natural for us to speak and for things to be spoken, whereas otherwise he will fail and accomplish nothing?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. I think the way you suggest is the right one.
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